The Multicultural Academic & Support Services (MASS) Office has been awarded $10,000 from Target® as part of its Campus Grants Program. The purpose of the grant is to support the MASS’ First-Generation College Student Program. The federal government defines First-Generation College Students as students whose parents or guardians have not completed a four-year degree.  Since 1946, Target® has dedicated five percent of its income to partnering with organizations to make positive changes in the community through education, the arts, social services and volunteerism.

The objectives of the 2009-2010 program are:

 
  • To provide first-generation college students with a structured approach to develop a meaningful experience at the University of Central Florida

    •  

  • To help first-generation college students form a more positive identification with the university community.
  • To motivate, and inspire moral, intellectual, academic and social support that will contribute to their success through graduation and career development.
    • The program is two-fold in its intent. First, incoming freshmen are targeted during the summer Orientation sessions. Monthly specialized workshops and round table sessions geared towards First-Time-In-College (FTIC) students are presented throughout the academic year. However, transfer students and upper classmen are welcome to attend. Secondly, MASS will target middle and high school students, counselors and parents by conducting outreach visits to area schools and community organizations during the academic year.

     The culminating program for this second audience will be the MASS College Prep Day, which will be held in April.

    The Target® Campus Grant will be used to support the program and allow students to develop their leadership strengths. Students will be exposed to career and internship opportunities on field trips and/or by presentations facilitated by Target and UCF representatives. A portion of the grant will be used to award the participants with scholarships determined by specific criteria.

    The Office of MASS is in the Division of Student Development and Enrollment Services. For more information, visit: www.mass.sdes.ucf.edu.