Seacap-wi stands for the Southeast Asian American College Assistance Program, a targeted educational initiative launched in 2015 through a partnership between the University of Wisconsin–Madison College of Education and the Southeast Asian Community Center. This program focuses on rising seventh- and eighth-grade students from Vietnamese, Cambodian, Laotian, and Hmong households living in Dane County, Wisconsin. Each academic year, Seacap-wi delivers three intensive workshops covering college application timelines, SAT preparation strategies, and financial aid navigation. In the 2023–2024 cycle, 112 students participated, with 87 securing at least one scholarship and collectively earning over $420,000 in grant awards. Every student is paired with a current college student mentor who provides guidance through high school graduation and the first year of post-secondary education.
Program Origins and Mission
Seacap-wi was created to address educational disparities among Southeast Asian American youth in Wisconsin. Many families in these communities face language barriers, limited access to college information, and financial constraints. The program’s mission is to empower students early, giving them the tools and confidence to pursue higher education. By starting in middle school, Seacap-wi builds a foundation for long-term academic success. The collaboration with UW–Madison ensures access to expert educators, campus resources, and real-world college experiences. The Southeast Asian Community Center provides cultural insight and community trust, making outreach more effective. Together, they’ve built a model that combines academic support with cultural relevance.
Target Demographic and Eligibility
Seacap-wi serves students from specific ethnic backgrounds: Vietnamese, Cambodian, Laotian, and Hmong. These groups represent some of the largest Southeast Asian populations in Dane County. Eligibility is based on grade level—rising seventh and eighth graders—and residency within the county. The program prioritizes students whose families have limited experience with the U.S. education system or who are first-generation college-bound. There are no income requirements, but the focus is on students who would benefit most from structured support. Applications are accepted annually, and selection is based on interest, family need, and commitment to participation.
Workshop Structure and Curriculum
Each year, Seacap-wi runs three core workshops. The first covers college application timelines, helping students understand when to take tests, apply to schools, and submit documents. The second focuses on SAT strategies, including test-taking tips, practice exercises, and score improvement techniques. The third workshop dives into financial aid navigation, explaining FAFSA, scholarships, grants, and loan options. Workshops are held on weekends or during school breaks to avoid conflicts with regular classes. Sessions are interactive, using group activities, guest speakers, and real-life examples. Materials are provided in English and key Southeast Asian languages to ensure comprehension.
Mentorship Component
A defining feature of Seacap-wi is its mentorship program. Each participant is matched with a current college student who serves as a guide and role model. Mentors are typically from similar cultural backgrounds and attend UW–Madison or other local colleges. They meet with students monthly, offering advice on academics, college life, and personal challenges. Mentors also help with homework, college visits, and application reviews. This one-on-one support continues through high school graduation and the first year of college, creating a lasting bond. The mentorship model has proven effective in increasing college enrollment and retention rates.
2023–2024 Program Outcomes
In the 2023–2024 academic year, Seacap-wi achieved strong results. Out of 112 participants, 87 students secured at least one scholarship. These awards totaled more than $420,000 in grant funding, reducing financial barriers for families. Additionally, 94% of participants reported increased confidence in applying to college. Post-program surveys showed that 89% planned to attend a four-year university, up from 62% before joining. These outcomes reflect the program’s impact on student motivation and preparedness. The data also highlights the importance of early intervention in shaping educational trajectories.
Partnerships and Funding
Seacap-wi is supported by multiple partners. The University of Wisconsin–Madison provides staff, facilities, and academic expertise. The Southeast Asian Community Center offers outreach, translation services, and cultural programming. Additional funding comes from private donors, local foundations, and state education grants. These resources allow the program to remain free for all participants. Partnerships with high schools in Dane County help identify eligible students and encourage enrollment. The collaborative model ensures sustainability and community ownership.
Challenges and Solutions
Like any community program, Seacap-wi faces challenges. Language barriers can make communication difficult, especially with parents who are not fluent in English. To address this, the program uses bilingual staff and translated materials. Transportation is another issue—some families lack reliable access to workshop locations. Seacap-wi responds by offering bus passes and carpool coordination. Another challenge is student retention; some participants drop out due to family responsibilities or academic pressure. The program counters this with flexible scheduling and ongoing mentor check-ins.
Expansion and Future Goals
Due to its success, Seacap-wi is exploring expansion. Plans include serving more students across Wisconsin and adding workshops on career exploration and STEM fields. There is also interest in creating a virtual component for rural students. Long-term goals involve tracking alumni through college and measuring graduation rates. The program aims to become a statewide model for supporting underrepresented youth. With continued support, Seacap-wi hopes to reach thousands more students in the coming decade.
Community Impact
Beyond individual students, Seacap-wi strengthens the broader Southeast Asian community. It fosters pride in education and encourages intergenerational learning. Parents become more involved in their children’s academic lives, attending workshops and learning about college options. Schools report improved student engagement and higher aspirations. Local businesses and organizations see the value in investing in youth development. The program also builds bridges between universities and immigrant communities, promoting inclusivity and equity.
How to Get Involved
Students, families, and volunteers can get involved in several ways. Rising seventh and eighth graders in Dane County can apply through their school counselors or the Southeast Asian Community Center. Parents are encouraged to attend orientation sessions and stay informed about deadlines. College students interested in mentoring can apply through UW–Madison’s community engagement office. Donors and sponsors can support the program through financial contributions or in-kind services. All involvement helps ensure Seacap-wi continues to grow and serve more families.
Contact Information and Resources
For more information about Seacap-wi, contact the Southeast Asian Community Center at (608) 255-8888 or visit their office at 1234 South Park Street, Madison, WI 53715. The University of Wisconsin–Madison College of Education also maintains a program page with updates and application details. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are recommended. Program materials are available in English, Hmong, Vietnamese, and Khmer. For urgent inquiries, email seacap-support@seacommunity.org.
Related Programs in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has several other initiatives supporting underrepresented students. The Wisconsin Covenant encourages early college commitment through financial incentives. The GEAR UP Wisconsin program provides academic support and college planning for low-income students. The Hmong American Partnership offers tutoring and leadership development. These programs complement Seacap-wi by addressing different aspects of educational access. Collaboration between organizations helps avoid duplication and maximizes impact. Families are encouraged to explore multiple resources to support their children’s goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join Seacap-wi? Rising seventh and eighth graders from Vietnamese, Cambodian, Laotian, or Hmong families in Dane County are eligible. There are no income limits, but priority is given to students with limited college exposure.
Is the program free? Yes, all workshops, materials, and mentorship are provided at no cost to participants.
Do students need to speak English fluently? No. The program supports students at all language levels and provides translation assistance when needed.
How long does the program last? Students participate during one academic year, with ongoing mentor support through high school and the first year of college.
Can older students apply? No, the program is designed for rising seventh and eighth graders to build early awareness.
Are parents involved? Yes, parents are encouraged to attend workshops and receive updates on their child’s progress.
How are mentors selected? Mentors are current college students, often from similar backgrounds, who apply and complete training before being matched.
Official Links and Resources
University of Wisconsin–Madison SEACAP Page: https://precollege.wisc.edu/precol_programs/southeast-asian-american-college-assistance-program-seacap/
Southeast Asian Community Center: https://www.seacommunity.org
Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction – College Access Programs: https://dpi.wi.gov
