SOAR X UMOJA PROGRAM
Learn more about the UMOJA Program, their mission, and how they help with retention through mentorship
OUR MISSION
Umoja, (a Kiswahili word meaning unity) is a community and critical resource dedicated to enhancing the cultural and educational experiences of African American and all other students. We believe that when the voices and histories of students are deliberately and intentionally recognized, the opportunity for self-efficacy emerges and a foundation is formed for academic success. Umoja actively serves and promotes student success for all students through a curriculum and pedagogy responsive to the legacy of the African and African American Diasporas.
The Umoja Community at UC Irvine is designed to assist students of African descent in the transition to a four-year university. We offer resources and support to help students set goals, and maximize their experience at UCI to achieve academic, professional, and personal success. The Transfer Student Center staff and counselors will provide individualized support to meet students where they are and support them in their goals and future aspirations.
*The Umoja program at UCI is pending until official designation from the Umoja Community Education Foundation. However, please reach out if you have any questions about the resources available to you.
UMOJA PEER EDUCATORS AT SOAR
She/Her/Hers
Hello! My name is Onyinyechi Ndu, and I am a third-year student studying Biomedical Engineering on a pre-med track. I joined SOAR because of its incredibly welcoming and supportive staff and community, as well as the invaluable opportunities it provides to help students thrive academically and grow as individuals. In my free time, I enjoy playing the violin, diving into a good book, and challenging myself to learn something new every day.
Onyinyechi M. Ndu
Umoja Peer Educator
She/Her
Hi everyone! My name is Sarah and I am a fourth year International Studies major. Outside of SOAR I enjoy traveling and reading books. I joined SOAR because I am aligned with its mission and would like to be involved in helping underserved communities with SOAR.
Sarah Hussein
Umoja Peer Educator
UMOJA PEER EDUCATORS AT THE TRANSFER CENTER
He/Him/His
Chitu Onyeador
Umoja Peer Educator
She/Her
Tracy Hill
Umoja Peer Educator
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UMOJA PROGRAM
What does the Umoja program offer?
1. One-on-One Advising
2. Peer Mentorship
3. LARC Scholarship
4. SOAR Scholarship
5. Book Loan/ I-Clicker Loan Program
6. Testing Materials
7. Graduate School Preparation
8. Individualized Workshops and Events
9. Priority Consideration for Housing (Umoja House in Arroyo Vista)
10. Umoja Professional Development Opportunity
11. Umoja Student Club
What do we do during consulting?
During consultations, we help identify and address student needs. We assist mentees to navigate and connect to campus resources and services. We work with our mentees to create an individual plan of action for student success
Focus areas during consultations include:
1. Academic Success
2. Mental and Emotional Health
3. Financial Wellness
4. Professional Development
5. Campus Engagement and Belonging
