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Educational Opportunity Program

 

The Goucher Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) is designed to provide a quality education to first generation college students, from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds, which show intellectual promise. Established in 2006, the EOP was created in response to Goucher’s commitment to diversity. The initial group of EOP Scholars was five in number. The program currently provides significant financial support to 28 Goucher undergraduate students.

The EOP benefits students by creating a supportive academic environment in which program participants can thrive. Students admitted into the program are selected based on academic potential and economic need. EOP staff and the Goucher community focus on acclimating program participants to college life by requiring their participation in the EOP Summer Bridge program. This four week early emersion program is held during the summer, after orientation. Its focus is on promoting academic success, college readiness and social adaptation. Summer Bridge is a residential experience, designed to introduce EOP scholars to the rigor and culture of college life. Daily workshops, mentorship, nightly tutorial sessions and weekly outings are offered to encourage and contribute to scholars’ academic success. Students enrolled through the EOP are supported beyond Summer Bridge. EOP staff members monitor their academic progress throughout their time at Goucher. Scholars participate in monthly personal development workshops, retreats and regularly scheduled one on one sessions with program staff. Goucher’s support of the EOP truly transcends boundaries.

2010 marks the graduation of the first cohort of EOP Scholars. Our vision is to promote Goucher’s legacy of service and commitment to a liberal arts education. The EOP work focuses on nurturing, supporting and mentoring students who represent the multicultural communities in which Goucher graduates are prepared to engage. As an active contributor to the process of creating an economically just and socially responsible world, Goucher’s vision is to expand the EOP to include more students facing economic challenges. Students and communities are enriched by the educational opportunities provided to students engaged in the EOP. Our work is just beginning, and we encourage you to join us by being part of the Educational Opportunity Program.

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