Pico Promise Transfer Academy

The Pico Promise Transfer Academy (PPTA) is a joint partnership between Santa Monica College and the City of Santa Monica. The Pico Promise Transfer Academy is designed to meet the needs of the underserved, under-represented youth living in close proximity to the College. The program assists and motivates young residents of the Pico neighborhood to transfer to a four-year college or university to complete a bachelor's degree (BA, BS).  PPTA is sponsored by the City of Santa Monica and Santa Monica College.

Who can apply?

You are eligible for the Pico Promise Transfer Academy if you:

·         Are 16-24 years old

·         Attended Santa Monica High School, Olympic High School, and/or Malibu High School; or live in the City of Santa Monica

·         Have financial need as verified by FAFSA

·        Complete a PPTA application

•   Academic, career, and wellness counseling
•   Assistance with enrollment and early registration
•   Supplemental instruction
•   Assistance with FAFSA
•   Help with buying textbooks and supplies
•   College visits

For more information about Pico Promise Transfer Academy, please contact the PPTA office at

(310)434-4926. 

The Pico Promise Transfer Academy Staff:

Dr. Roberto Gonzalez, Associate Dean        Gonzalez_Roberto@smc.edu   (310) 434-4915

Aimee Lem, Counselor                             Lem_Aimee@smc.edu            (310) 434-4138

Maria Becerra, Counselor                         Becerra_Maria@smc.edu        (310) 434-8478

Jeanette Ciciora, Student Services Clerk    Ciciora_Jeanette@smc.edu     (310) 434-4926