Founder/CEO

Hello! I’m Sterling Da’ron Hicks Sr, the founder of Next Steps: College & Career Readiness. With a background in Higher Education, Behavior Intervention, Youth Mentorship and coaching, I’ve dedicated my career to empowering students and families to navigate the complex world of education and career planning. My journey has been shaped by my commitment to creating transformative opportunities that enable individuals to discover their passions, achieve their goals, and reach their full potential.

I believe every student deserves the opportunity to succeed, no matter their background. Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed the life-changing impact of education and mentorship. It’s my passion to help students make informed decisions about their careers and college pathways—whether it’s identifying the right scholarship or completing a FAFSA application with confidence.

Through Next Steps: College & Career Readiness, I want to see more students confident in their college and career choices, less burdened by financial concerns, and fully equipped with the tools and knowledge to thrive. I want to see families empowered with the understanding of how to support their children’s success. Ultimately, my goal is to create a ripple effect—where students, armed with the right guidance, can achieve their dreams and contribute positively to their communities.