Hunter College AANAPISI Project (HCAP)

Since 2016, Hunter College AANAPISI Project (HCAP) has been supporting students of all backgrounds. We have a special commitment to Asian American and first-generation college students, including many from immigrant families building new lives in the U.S. Students who participate in HCAP need support: 82% receive federal and state financial aid; 75% lack academic guidance at home; 44% do not feel part of the campus community; and 48% report low emotional resilience.

HCAP programs work. Compared to non-HCAP students, our students had higher one-year retention rates (HCAP: 97% vs non-HCAP: 85%) and higher graduation rates at both the four-year (HCAP: 60% vs non-HCAP: 42%) and six-year (HCAP: 86% vs non-HCAP: 60%) milestones. These statistically significant differences demonstrate that HCAP students are staying enrolled and graduating sooner than their peers. Due to federal cuts, HCAP lost its main source of funding in 2025.

Our transfer student program provides peer mentoring and helps new transfers adjust to life at a four-year university and navigate Hunter’s systems. Paid undergraduate research assistantships, academic classes, and career exploration programs connect students to faculty mentors and concrete career and leadership pathways, while shaping student's academic and professional journeys. Our community events help promote a sense of belonging, emotional resilience, and normalize help-seeking.

This Giving day, funds raised will help Hunter Asian-American and first-generation college students thrive academically, professionally, and personally. Help us sustain HCAP, so we can keep supporting Hunter students holistically!