29 September 2009

Disadvantaged students are more likely to complete a four-year bachelor’s degree with key supports during their college years, according to a recent study. Researchers found that low-income and minority students who remained enrolled through four years of college utilized four important resources: guidance in developing their college plans, setting clear goals, finding academic and financial help, and an advocate encouraging them to earn a bachelor’s degree.  

Based on the research study, here are a few recommendations for all students, parents, teachers and advisors.

Students

To ensure graduation success:

• Seek support from your teacher, guidance counselor, or a caring professional in your community
• Talk to your teachers after class and during study hall
• Join a study group with other like-minded serious students
• Explore a wide range of career interests early
• Develop a plan to obtain exposure to and experience in a specific career
• Set goals based on your career interest
• Utilize academic and financial resources to accomplish your goals

Teachers and advisors

To help students graduate:

• Reach out and offer support if you notice a student is struggling
• Identify students with academic weaknesses early and create an early-alert intervention program

Parents

Support your son or daughter by:

• Encouraging them to ask for help and utilize the services on campus
• Communicating how proud you are of their accomplishments and hard work

Smart students get help when they need it to succeed. Remind them it is not a sign of weakness.

On ExploreHealthCareers you can:

• Develop a college plan by making a list of courses you need to take each semester. The preparation tab provides the academic requirements for each career to ensure that you meet the necessary pre-requisites. 
• Find a health career that is right for you by searching over 120 careers in health.
• Clarify your career goals - Is a Health Career Right for You?
• Learn a Step-by-Step Approach to Planning your Health Career.
• Get tips on How to Pay for School.
• Search our Funding Database with hundreds of scholarships, grants, and loans for minority and low-income students pursuing health careers.

EHC can point you in the right direction and help you get the support you need.