ABOUT US:

The Center for Puerto Rican Studies (CENTRO) at Hunter College is the oldest and largest research library and archive dedicated to the Puerto Rican experience in the United States. Established in 1973, it was created by a group of students, academics, and community leaders who wanted to honor, explore, and share Puerto Rican culture and history. From preserving important stories to researching the impact of Puerto Ricans in the U.S., CENTRO is the place where the past, present, and future come together to celebrate Puerto Rican identity.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CENTRO, VISIT
https://centropr.hunter.cuny.edu

ABOUT THE CENTRO YOUTH COLLECTIVE:

The CENTRO Youth Collective is an exciting program for middle and high school students who want to learn more about Puerto Rican history, culture, and social justice issues, shaping our world today.

In this program, you’ll explore important topics like race, class, gender, migration, and climate change —all through the lens of Puerto Rican experiences. You’ll dive into big ideas like identity, belonging, language, and community, and see how they connect to real-life struggles for equality and leadership. Plus, you’ll learn how young people have engaged in activism to create positive social change in their communities and the world.

Through engaging activities and archival materials, you’ll learn about notable Puerto Ricans, organizations, and social movements. More than just classroom learning, you’ll get the chance to connect your personal story to broader social issues, helping you grow as both a scholar and a leader.

We encourage you to apply here YOUTH SCHOLARS COLLECTIVE APPLICATION to join this special community of learners. Applicants selected for the CENTRO Youth Collective will meet in an 8-week Saturday program this Fall. Sessions will take place in-person at the Center for Puerto Rican Studies in East Harlem at 2180 3rd Avenue, New York.

What to expect:

· Group sessions exploring Puerto Rican history, culture, and contributions to New York and U.S. history
· Guest speakers with firsthand experience in Puerto Rican history.
· Hands-on activities in creative writing, arts, and research.
· Skills development that will enhance both your creative and academic abilities, helping you in school and beyond as a lifelong learner.
· An introduction to how young people actively contribute to their community and social change.

Dates and times for the 8 sessions:

September 26
October 3,10, 17, & 24
November 7 & 14
December 5

Applicant requirements:

· You are currently in grades 6 to11.
· You are able to attend all 8 in-person sessions in East Harlem.
· Your application must be submitted no later than May 1, 2026.

Important application dates:

· Application & Essay are due no later than May 1, 2026
· Eligible candidates will be interviewed via Zoom between May and June
· Notifications of acceptance will be sent by early June 2026.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Students who are presently in grades 6-11 and can commit to attending all 8 in-person sessions at the Center for Puerto Rican Studies at Hunter College in East Harlem, New York City, are welcomed to apply. Applications are due no later than  May 1, 2026. Notifications of acceptance will be sent out by early June. The application process includes the following:

· General  application (completed in its entirety) submitted by May 1, 2026
· Essay Question Response also submitted by May 1, 2026
· Participation in an interview that will be conducted between May and June via Zoom once the initial application is received