Program Benefits and Requirements

Program Benefits

Umoja students will benefit from the following services and support:

1. Supportive network of faculty, staff, and administrators who have the cultural competency to help you reach your goals
2. Cohort-based, Afro-centric learning opportunities in English, Ethnic Studies, and Counseling
3. Peer mentoring program
4. Transfer support and planning, including transfer pathways to the UCs, CSUs, and HBCUs
5. Statewide conferences and symposia sponsored by the Umoja Community Education Foundation (statewide Umoja organization)
6. Dedicated academic counselor and retention specialist
7. Access to the Village, a dedicated study and social space for the Umoja, Puente, and Mana learning communities
8. Field trips to museums, like the De Young and Museum of the African Diaspora
9. Campus visits to local universities
10. Umoja Club (BSU)
11. Black Leadership Program
12. Weekly porch talks and social time
13. Mental health, finance, and scholarship workshops

Program Requirements

Members of the Umoja Community are expected to complete the following program requirements:

1. For cohort students, a one year commitment to the coursework
2. Participation in Umoja gatherings, field trips, celebrations, and/or the Umoja Club
3. Meet with the Umoja Counselor twice (2x) a semester
4. Complete a Student Education Plan (SEP)
5. Meet with the Umoja retention specialist twice (2x) a semester and the Umoja coordinator once (1x) a semester
6. Attend and be on time for all classes and complete all homework for those classes
7. Meet with the Umoja instructors, counselor, retention specialist, and/or coordinator is struggling to balance school, family, and/or worrk
8. Actively participate in the peer mentoring program
9. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the California College Promise Grant application