Class of 2005

Class of 2006

Class of 2007

Odyssey FAQs

How much does it cost?
The tuition for the program is free because of grant funding and private donations. Books and child care are provided without charge as well.

Who can apply for the program?

To be eligible to participate, students must:

• be at least 18 years old
  
• possess a high school diploma or GED/HSED
  
• have demonstrated financial need (income at or near the federal poverty level)
  
• possess the ability to read challenging books in English
  
• make a commitment to attend classes regularly and complete weekly assignments

If I meet those requirments, how do I apply?

You may submit an application online or pick one up at the South Madison Public Library, 2232 S. Park St, or call 608-262-3733.

Where and when are Odyssey Project classes offered?

Classes start in early September at the South Madison Health and Family Center-Harambee, located at 2202 South Park St. in Madison. Classes meet on Wednesday evenings from 6-9 pm through May, with holiday breaks. Refreshments are provided. Additional writing tutorials and advising sessions are scheduled throughout the year.

What kind of material is covered in the class?

See the reading list for a partial list of works we explored in the first year of the project. What difference could this class make to me?

A good account of the transformative power of the class can be found in a story written by one of our graduates (See Denise's story of Illumination). Reading the comments of other graduates should also give you a sense of the class.

If I'm accepted into the class, does this mean I'm admitted to UW-Madison?

Accepted students are considered University Special students, which is not the same as students admitted to a degree program. Odyssey students do, however, receive UW-Madison photo IDs, and many of the same benefits (bus pass, access to campus facilities, etc.). Students in the Odyssey Project receive counseling on how to apply to the UW and other colleges.

Who can I call with questions?

Please contact Emily Auerbach at 608-262-3733 or by e-mail at eauerbach@dcs.wisc.edu, or contact Diane Dennis at 608-262-3885 or e-mail ddennis@dcs.wisc.edu