Starting strong: KPC’s CAMP helps Alaska’s new college students

Published 7:34 am Monday, June 15, 2026

by Kenai Peninsula College

Kenai Peninsula College's campus is home to CAMP, which supports first-year students through financial assistance, academic guidance and community connections. Photo courtesy Kenai Peninsula College.

Financial support, academic guidance and a built-in community help students succeed

Starting college can feel like a big step. From navigating applications, course registration and financial aid to finding comfort in a new environment, it can feel overwhelming without the right support.

At Kenai Peninsula College (KPC), the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) is helping first-year students across Alaska take that first step with confidence.

“College can feel overwhelming, especially when students are balancing work, family responsibilities or returning to school after time away,” says Annie Gardner, CAMP Coordinator. “Our goal is to make sure students know they have support from the moment they begin.”

Designed to support students from seasonal agricultural backgrounds, the program provides financial assistance, academic guidance and a strong sense of community during the critical first year of college.

First-year support for all ages

While CAMP is focused on first-year college students, age is not a factor.

The program is open to students of any age who have completed fewer than 30 college credits after graduating from high school.

To participate, students must:

Have a high school diploma or GED
Be enrolled as a degree-seeking student at KPC / UAA
Take at least 12 credits (about four classes)

As a community campus of the University of Alaska Anchorage, KPC also offers students pathways to continue their education throughout the broader University of Alaska system.

Who CAMP serves

CAMP is designed for students with a background in seasonal agricultural work.

You may qualify if:

You participated in a K-12 Migrant Education Program, or
You or a supporting family member worked 75 days in the last 24 months in seasonal agricultural work

In Alaska, that often includes commercial fishing, subsistence activities, forestry, farming, foraging and other forms of seasonal agricultural labor.

“Many students don’t realize they qualify for the program,” says Tess Donnelly, the program recruiter. “We encourage anyone who thinks they may be eligible to reach out and start a conversation.”

Building a community at KPC

To support students and their educational goals, CAMP provides support for tuition, books, technology and other college-related expenses.

They also provide academic coaching, assistance with financial aid and registration and guidance throughout the first year.

Equally as important is the sense of belonging students find through the program. Students can join a cohort of peers, participate in leadership and cultural enrichment activities and build connections that often last a lifetime.

“Success in college isn’t just about academics,”Gardner notes. “It’s about feeling connected, supported and confident in your ability to succeed.”

Recruiting now for Fall

With flexible options available both on the Kenai Peninsula and online, CAMP is designed to meet students where they are.

Kenai Peninsula College is currently recruiting students for its upcoming fall cohort.

Those interested in learning more about eligibility or applying are encouraged to visit kpc.alaska.edu, connect with the team at 907-262-0386 or by emailing kpc.camp@alaska.edu.

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