Creating Equity in Higher Education: A Call for Comprehensive Support Systems
In the evolving landscape of higher education, the projected shift toward people of color becoming the new majority in education and workforce settings brings with it a responsibility to address persistent inequities. As a first-generation college student and a member of the Latinx community, my own experiences underscore the urgent need for systemic changes and well-shaped policies to ensure students of color not only access college but thrive academically despite facing significant challenges.
During my freshman year, I confronted unforeseen financial difficulties that jeopardized my ability to pursue higher education. This experience highlighted the glaring gaps in accessible resources for students facing sudden financial crises. It became evident that addressing the holistic needs of students, beyond tuition costs, is crucial for promoting academic success. This personal journey informs my advocacy for comprehensive support services that encompass financial aid programs, mental health resources, food and housing security initiatives, academic advising programs, mentorship opportunities, and financial literacy education.
By addressing these facets, we can create a more inclusive and equitable higher education landscape for students of color.
- Comprehensive Financial Aid Programs: Advocating for increased funding for need-based scholarships and grants specifically targeting students of color is paramount. These programs alleviate financial burdens and enhance accessibility. Establishing emergency financial assistance programs ensures immediate support for students facing unexpected financial crises, preventing them from derailing their academic pursuits.
- Mental Health Resources: Integrating culturally competent mental health services is critical. Counseling and support groups tailored to the unique challenges faced by students of color provide essential resources for maintaining mental well-being. Establishing outreach programs is vital for reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues and raising awareness of available resources, fostering a supportive campus environment.
- Food and Housing Security Initiatives: Creating on-campus food banks and affordable meal plans directly addresses issues of food insecurity among students. Adequate nutrition is fundamental to academic success. Developing partnerships with local housing organizations ensures affordable and stable housing options for students, mitigating challenges associated with housing insecurity.
- Academic Advising Programs: Expanding academic advising programs, especially in the crucial first year, provides personalized guidance to help students navigate the challenges of higher education. This support fosters a sense of belonging and purpose. Implementing mentorship programs that pair students of color with faculty or staff members creates a supportive network. Mentors can offer guidance, share experiences, and provide essential insights into academic and career pathways.
- Financial Literacy Education: Integrating financial literacy education into orientation programs equips students with the skills to manage their finances responsibly from the outset of their college journey. Providing workshops and resources on budgeting, loan repayment, and long-term financial planning empowers students to make informed decisions about their financial future.
In essence, implementing these supports is not just a theoretical framework for me; it’s a deeply personal commitment. These initiatives are the tools that could have eased my journey and can now pave the way for future students to navigate higher education with confidence and success. By fostering a more inclusive and equitable higher education landscape, we not only acknowledge the diverse experiences of students like me but actively work towards a future where everyone, regardless of their background, has the resources and support needed to thrive academically and beyond.
As a dynamic advocate for equity in higher education, Audrey is a passionate first-generation college student and member of the Latinx community. Through impactful community engagement, leadership in organizations like Young Invincibles and the ACLU, and a commitment to comprehensive support services, Audrey strives to create lasting change and empower students of color in their pursuit of academic success.
Building Bridges: My Vision for Supporting Students of Color on Campus
My name is Juan Sergio Longoria, and I walk into university halls talking about a hard-fought past. I grew up knowing more about empty pots than textbooks, but here I stand as a graduate student, a testament to the effects of poverty. The journey has been hard – a maze of obstacles meant for others, not someone like me. But obstacles, yes, they make you work harder. Thanks to them, I realized that support systems aren’t just a good idea; they are ladders that enable students of color to achieve what we were never meant to achieve.
Mental health is not talked about in my community. Asking for help with your mind seems easy, but the stress, the burden of constant exposure, the sting of subtle racism… those things chip away at your soul. We need safe spaces and mentors who come from where we come from. Places where it doesn’t matter if we don’t do well, so that we can recharge to keep fighting. And let’s be real – how can you focus on math when you don’t know where your next meal is coming from? We need a full stomach and a hard roof if our minds are going to be ready to learn. Food banks and affordable housing are not charities; they level the playing field.
I was happy to meet a few people who saw something in me, who spoke my language. Mentors who shared their struggles and showed me ways they hadn’t found themselves. That is what we need most – not handouts, but guidance from the people who did it. And student loans? Balls and chains keeping our community down. We need more than debt; we need courses on money, on how the whole system works, so that we don’t have to worry about each other for the rest of our lives paying back what we borrowed just to get an education.
See, the thing is, supporting students like me, it’s not just the right thing to do – although that’d be sufficient. It’s about what we bring to the table: our hustle, our resilience, the perspective born of struggle. When we succeed, everyone benefits. That’s the future I’m fighting for, not just for myself but for all who will come after.
Juan Sergio Longoria is a graduate student attending the University of Houston. Juan uses he/him/el pronouns, and is an active community member when it comes to health care accessibility and policy.
Supports for Students of Color on Campus
I’m a junior at the University of St. Thomas, majoring in Computer Science. I come from an African heritage (Nigeria, to be specific), where the prevailing narrative suggests that if you’re going through anything, you should turn to God or your higher power, as everything can be resolved through spiritual means. Despite witnessing the tragic loss of young lives to suicide in the news, African parents often attribute mental health problems solely to those who have faced extreme life pressures.
In my personal experience, due to the stigma surrounding mental health, I never considered seeking therapy or taking time for myself to ensure my well-being. However, everything changed this September when I was robbed at gunpoint. Up until that point, my semester had been going smoothly, but the traumatic experience left me feeling nervous and paranoid. I couldn’t shake the fear that the gunman might return to my dorm, especially since they had my ID.
A friend suggested therapy, and although I was hesitant at first, I eventually agreed. It turned out to be a beneficial experience, and it opened my eyes to the power of sharing stories in combating stigma. By sharing our experiences, we can break down barriers and let others know that it’s okay to seek help. This realization has inspired me to advocate for creating spaces where students of color can feel comfortable expressing themselves, such as story circles. Additionally, I believe that implementing mandatory financial literacy sessions and mentorship programs can contribute to making higher education more inclusive and equitable for students of color.
Micheal Zimako is a student who likes dancing, writing, and playing soccer.
A Dreamers Dream
Growing up in Houston, the vibrant arts scene had a profound influence on my life, igniting a passion for visual and performing arts that I was determined to turn into reality. After graduating from high school, I made the critical decision to attend Houston Community College (HCC) to pursue an associate’s degree in visual and performing arts.
This decision was both practical and driven by passion. I believed that HCC could provide me with valuable opportunities in the world of art while nurturing my creative talents. Immersed in various art forms, from painting and sculpture to dance and theater, I thrived in the nurturing environment HCC provided, guided by experienced mentors and surrounded by fellow artists.
The intense two-year program demanded creativity and discipline, honing my skills and deepening my understanding of both the technical and business aspects of the arts. My education became a canvas upon which I painted my aspirations, each brushstroke bringing me closer to my goals.
Upon receiving my associate’s degree, I embarked on my journey as a professional artist, fully aware of the challenges ahead. Despite the competitive and unpredictable nature of the art world, my determination and belief in the value of my education kept me going. Showcasing my artwork at local galleries and participating in community events, I began to captivate audiences with my performances, finding validation for my choices in these small yet meaningful moments.
As time passed, I became an advocate for arts education, visiting local schools to inspire young minds and showcase the potential of alternative career pathways outside of traditional four-year degree programs. My journey served as proof that a well-crafted educational pathway, like the one I pursued at HCC, could be a stepping stone to a fulfilling career in the arts, highlighting the importance of passion, dedication, and resilience in pursuing one’s dreams.
In retrospect, I realized that my associate’s degree had indeed led to valuable opportunities, providing me with the knowledge, skills, and connections necessary to thrive in the world of visual and performing arts. My story became an inspiration for others seeking alternative career pathways, demonstrating that artistry could be a bridge to a life filled with creativity and purpose.
A commuity advocate and changemaker.
The Unheard Cry of an International Student
The summer of 2023 brought about significant changes in Nigeria’s government, leading to a decline in the country’s economy. As an international student from Nigeria, this downturn became my worst nightmare. The economic turmoil impacted my education, causing uncertainty about where I would continue my studies for the spring semester.
During the winter break, while others enjoyed time with their families, I grappled with the weight of uncertainty. My parents had conflicting views on my education’s direction, with my father suggesting transferring to a more affordable community college, while my mother insisted on continuing at the university. This disagreement added to the despair within my family.
The financial burden on international students is exacerbated by the disparity in tuition fees, which are typically two to three times higher than those for citizens. Throughout my university journey, I witnessed my school fees triple due to the economic decline in Nigeria. While the American education system isn’t to blame for these challenges, I believe there are avenues for assistance from the U.S. government.
While grants and scholarships are available, they often fall short in covering the substantial costs international students face. A $350 scholarship pales in comparison to a $40,000 fee. While acknowledging the differences in treatment between citizens and international students, there should be efforts to alleviate the financial burden.
Furthermore, adapting to a new learning system adds another layer of complexity for international students. Despite receiving guidance from academic advisors, crucial information about prerequisites and additional courses necessary for graduation was lacking. As a result, my GPA suffered, and even the international student office couldn’t provide adequate assistance.
To address this issue, experienced graduate international students could play a pivotal role in guiding newcomers through the academic system. By sharing their knowledge and experiences, they can help fellow students navigate successfully and instill a sense of giving back within the international student community.
In conclusion, the challenges faced by international students require comprehensive support systems and initiatives to ease financial burdens and facilitate academic success. Collaboration between educational institutions and experienced international students can lead to a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.
Esther Gwa is a Nigerian Student at the University of Houston, they are studying Human Nutrition and foods on the pre-med track. They love children and Korean drama.