The Transition to Higher Education Program started in 2014 and has had around one hundred participants in the last two years.

The program is run out of the High River Bow Valley College campus and is open to any Foothills residents who were affected by the 2013 flood.

June Diment, the college's regional lead, says the program involves seven different workshops that look at what post-secondary program someone should apply for, how to apply, as well as making a financial plan and budget for going back to school.

"It is an important part of being prepared for the troubles of post-secondary education and also an important, but looked over, part of life," Diment says.

Diment adds that the program is different for those who are in the phase of applying to programs and those who have already been accepted.

After someone has been accepted into a program, the workshops help discover the individuals learning weaknesses or difficulties. These workshops also show how the individual does with time management and where they can grow in that area.

"One of the biggest challenges for some people is managing school, a job, and family life," Diment says.

Diment says registering for the program is as easy as registering at the Okotoks or High River campuses.

"While there students will be shown how to apply and register for the event formally."

Once the program is completed fully, participants have the opportunity to apply for a $4500 scholarship.

September will be the last time this program will be running and the last chance for Foothills residents to be a part of it.

Questions, comments, or story ideas? Email us at news@okotoksonline.com