F.O.C.U.S. Initiative: Fostering Opportunity, Unwavering Support for Underrepresented First-Generation Students
F.O.C.U.S. is an intensive year-long program created to aid in eliminating the gap in post-graduation outcomes and starting salaries between underrepresented, first-generation students and their peers to positively impact their career trajectory, earnings potential, and economic security for years to come. Through a series of workshops, this program looks to provide transformative learning experiences for students in and out the classroom. The program will help in creating highly prepared citizens while diversifying the workforce. Students selected for the program will receive a $2,500 scholarship to mitigate the financial burden of participation over two semesters.
The goals of this program are to:
- Increase awareness and provide exposure to wide variety of occupations and careers
- Foster development of critical career readiness competencies that are expected by employers
- Cultivate a professional network of mentors and advocates
- Empower students to craft and confidently tell their story
- Prepare participants to effectively compete for vital professional experiences
- Provide financial support to ensure academic excellence
Student Qualifications:
- Must be currently enrolled as an undergraduate student and have completed freshman year
- Must be enrolled consecutively, full-time for the upcoming 2021 - 2022 academic year
- Must be a first-generation college student
- Must be a member of a group historically underrepresented in education (Native American/Alaska Native, Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander)
- Must be available to commit to 8 hours of participation per week
Nominate a student:
We are now accepting nominations from members of the Illinois community such as staff, faculty, and graduate students. Nominators are urged to let their nominees know that they are submitting a nomination for them. Link to nomination form.
Please submit your nomination by Friday, August 20 to ensure ample time for your nominee to apply.
For further questions or concerns, please visit our website at: https://www.careercenter.illinois.edu/focus-scholars
If you are seeking more information, please contact:
Michael Valadez
Assistant Director for Student Outreach, The Career Center
mdv3@illinois.edu
Haro Wade
Student Success Advisor, Office of Minority Student Affairs (OMSA)
wade3@illinois.edu
