Programs
First Generation LLC focuses on involvement, community building, and college skills
(time management, note taking, and resume building). For more information, please contact Michelle Zengulis at 901.678.2295 | mpznglis@memphis.edu
First Scholars
This mission of First Scholars Program is to dramatically improve the graduation rate of first-generation college students and to prepare each scholar for a life with self-awareness, success, and significance. First Scholars' comprehensive program was created to specifically address the holistic development of first-generation students throughout their college experience. Our program delivers multiple levels of support, including a full-time program coordinator and peer mentors to help First Scholars address the unique challenges first-gen students face. Each year the First Scholars Program accepts 20 students to participate in this special cohort. Scholars selected to the program will receive an annual $5,000 scholarship over their four year experience at the University of Memphis, for a total of $20,000 in scholarship funding. In addition to the scholarship, students will receive a number of social, academic and leadership activities designed to guide scholars through key transitions pivotal to their success. For more information, contact Jaclyn Rodriguez at 901.678.6041 | jpsavell@memphis.edu.
Hooks African American Male Initiative
Academic Achievement * Personal Development * Career Readiness * Financial Literacy
Hooks African American Male services include guidance and support to improve retention
and graduation rates of undergraduate African American males at the UofM. Services
are delivered through group enrichment sessions, group mentoring, individual coaching
and case management. For more information, please contact Rorie Trammel at 901.678.4654 | rtrammel@memphis.edu.
OFGSS Peer Mentoring Program
Over 30% of the UofM campus is first-generation. We graduate hundreds of first-generation students every year. You can be successful here! This program focuses on connecting first-year students with a mentor who has been successful at the UofM! You can create a relationship with someone who will look out for you and understands where you've been! For more information contact firstgen@memphis.edu.
Sign up to request a Peer Mentor >
Opportunity Scholars Program allows our students with DACA or TPS to continue their education with financial aid and staff support that includes up to $25,000 over four years and professional, academic and social programming throughout their collegiate journey. For more information, contact Jaclyn Rodriguez at 901.678.6041 | jpsavell@memphis.edu.
The goal of TRIOs is to increase retention and graduation rates of University of Memphis students who are first generation, low-income, and/or have a documented disability. We work to foster an institutional climate supportive of the success of a diverse group of students who have an academic need by providing educational opportunities, giving attention to individual needs and emphasizing academic excellence. For more information, contact Melvyn Harding at 901.678.2967 | mharding@memphis.edu.
Suit Yourself is open to currently enrolled students at the University of Memphis who meet the selected criteria. The purpose of Suit Yourself is to ensure that students are career (Tiger Talent) ready by:
- Providing appropriate professional attire for career fairs, interviews and other professional events
- Expanding students' personal and professional development
- Building students' confidence and self-esteem through the power of personal appearance
As part of the Suit Yourself program, students will have an opportunity to attend one of four JCPenney in-store events that will be held over the course of the 2017-2018 academic year. Each participating student will receive a $150 JCPenney gift card, a 40% off discount coupon (will apply to predetermined apparel categories), and a style guide furnished by JCPenney. For more information, contact Alisha Rose Henderson at 901.678.2239 | arose3@memphis.edu.