![Somos Unidos - One Word Program](https://oertx.highered.texas.gov/static/newdesign/images/materials/default-thumbnail-index.png)
The Somos Unidos “ One Word Project" is a student success initiative designed to accelerate mentor training and knowledge to support first-generation students and positively increase student retention and graduation rates. In partnership with the UIW FLIGHT Mentor Center, this project further expands UIWs ability to improve outcomes for first-generation students through curricular and co-curricular programming as well as professional development for faculty and staff. The intent is to create a sense of belonging for our students and methods to help students develop confidence and their own voices, ultimately strengthening retention rates amongst first-generation students. The Somos Unidos “ One Word Project seeks to raise the UIW retention rate to its institutional goal of 75% and close the gap each semester between these underserved populations and all other groups combined.
DELIVERY FORMAT: The program is in-person only.
PROGRAM SCALE: Medium-scale (reaches between 10 and 25 percent of its target population)
PROGRAM OUTCOMES: First-Generation Celebration Survey
64% of respondents identified as first-generation.
19% of respondents usually tell their classmates they are first generation, while 27% only reveal in relevant situations
63% of respondents felt their was more academic support than expected before starting at the university
The most important services most helpful for first generation students were identified as celebration events, advising support, and financial aid support.
A low awareness of support services for first generation students indicates the need for opportunities for the institution to increase efforts to help first generation students know what supports are available.
DEPARTMENT(S) OVERSEEING PROGRAM: Office of Student Success (website to be launched in Fall 2023)
CONTACT FOR MORE INFO: Dr. Monica Ayala Jimenez at monica.jimenez@uiwtx.edu or 210-805-3005
- Subject:
- Student Success
- Material Type:
- Student Success: Faculty/staff-facing
- Student Success: Parent/guardian-facing
- Student Success: Student-facing
- Provider:
- University of the Incarnate Word
- Author:
- THECB Student Success
- Date Added:
- 09/26/2023