TMA UMD First Generation Student Success Project

The University of Maryland College Park's (UMD) First Generation VISTA project is an effort to understand and remove barriers for the academic success of first-generation (FG) students. We will establish new programs and strengthen relationships among departments and organizations both on and off-campus to address the needs of the student population. The TMA AmeriCorps VISTA member will be instrumental in coordinating and advancing FG initiatives among UMD staff and students. We are confident that this three-year project will pave the way to prevent poverty through economic opportunities for UMD's most vulnerable community. This project supports the Transform Mid-Atlantic (TMA) AmeriCorps VISTA primary program areas of "economic opportunity" by supporting first-generation students achieve academic success.

Member Duties : VISTA will build initiatives that support first-generation college students and develop a campus-wide comprehensive strategy that supports first-generation student success. VISTA will build capacity in order to address the unmet needs of first-generation college students, a historically marginalized student population inclusive of students of color and low-income students, to sustainably foster success and community. VISTA will facilitate the implementation of the three-year project through on- and off-campus partnerships with students, staff, faculty, and community partners and stakeholders. VISTA will establish and maintain Working Groups dedicated to crafting recommendations for first-generation student success, strengthen existing relationships with community partners and establish new relationships, collect useful resources for students, assist in designing a communications campaign, and empower first-generation students through programming and leadership opportunities.

Program Benefits : Relocation Allowance , Childcare assistance if eligible , Education award upon successful completion of service , Training , Living Allowance , Health Coverage* , Choice of Education Award or End of Service Stipend , Professional Development .

*For details about AmeriCorps VISTA healthcare benefits, please visit https://americorps.gov/members-volunteers/vista/benefits .

Terms :
Car recommended , Permits working at another job during off hours , Permits attendance at school during off hours .

Service Areas :
Education , Community Outreach .

Skills :
Computers/Technology , Public Speaking , Education , Communications , Writing/Editing , Team Work , General Skills .