University of Maryland, College Park
PAE-10: Affordability and Access Programs

Educational Opportunity Center (EOC), Robert E. McNair Graduate Fellowships, and Student Support Services Programs (SSS) are part of the Federal TRIO programs and are funded by the U.S. Department of Education to promote access, provide support services, and motivate as well as prepare students from disadvantaged backgrounds for retention in and graduation from undergraduate and doctoral programs. Educational Talent Search Program (ETSP) is a grant funded federal TRIO program supported by the U.S. Department of Education, and sponsored by the University of Maryland. ETSP is a pre-college program designed to provide information about college admissions, scholarships and various student financial aid programs to help participants to plan and prepare for postsecondary education opportunities. ESTP primarily serves low-income and first generation potential college students ages 11-27 years old. Presently, ETSP is charged to serve 800 students per year at ten target high schools in Prince Georges County Public Schools. ESTP has ben hosted by the University of Maryland since 1986. http://www.provost.umd.edu/SP07/colleges/UGST_Strategic_Plan_final_2009.pdf Pre-College Programs Services allow students to receive instruction in English, foreign language, math, science, computer programming and applications and study skills. Upward Bound Math & Science students are also given instructions in research and writing methods. Educational field trips and cultural activities have been integrated into the program to encourage learning outside the classrooms. Students in the Pre-College Programs have access to various resources when beginning their search for college. Through individual and group guidance, counselors assist students with identifying their academic, personal, and social needs and exploring institutions that best match these needs. Students also have the opportunity to visit college campuses during spring and fall college tours. As high school seniors, students are provided college application fee waivers as well as guidance with completing college applications, essays, and resumes.

University of Maryland Incentive Awards Program (IAP) was initiated in 2001 to recognize and reward young people who want to better their life opportunities through a college education. The program specifically targets students who, despite adverse life situations, demonstrate academic ability, uncommon persistence and maturity. Students receive full financial support (tuition, fees, room and board) for their undergraduate studies at the University of Maryland. The heart of the University of Maryland Incentive Awards Program is the development of individual character, community, responsibility and leadership within an intimate community of peers, advisors and faculty mentors. The cohort students that form the core of this community benefit from outstanding academic and support programs and are also active in their home activities as role models for future incentive Award candidates.

The University has a program called the Center for Teaching Excellence that facilitates and supports new innovations in teaching, helps faculty teach more efficiently and effectively, and oversees faculty learning communities that address current and future educational needs of the University. CTE works with colleges, departments, programs, and individuals to enhance student learning and recognize excellence in teaching through workshops, ceremonies, and awards and consultations. CTE created The Inclusions and Diversity Course Transformation Project (IDCTF) that seeks to develop innovative teaching approached and learning modules focused on inclusion and diversity that can be used in a variety of courses and disciplines.

Academic Achievement Programs (AAPs) primarily serve educationally disadvantaged, low-income, and first generation college students. They provide academic support, advising and counseling, skill enhancement, and tutoring for these populations and for students with disabilities. Academic Achievement Programs include, the Intensive Educational Development (IED), Educational Opportunity Center (EOC), the Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program (McNair), the Summer Transitional Program, and Student Support Services (SSS).

Upward Bound counselors help students and parents locate financial assistance to fund future college education expenses. Through individual and group guidance, counselors assist students and parents with exploring scholarship resources as well as navigating the federal financial aid process. Students are guided through completing the paperwork necessary for assistance applications. Financial aid workshops are provided periodically. The Office of Admissions at Maryland also offers extensive outreach programs and gives information to the parents. The Office of Community Engagement has regular community events that engage parents, teachers, and the broader community and offer parental support programs.

University of Maryland Incentive Awards Program (IAP) was initiated in 2001 to recognize and reward young people who want to better their life opportunities through a college education. The program specifically targets students who, despite adverse life situations, demonstrate academic ability, uncommon persistence and maturity. Students receive full financial support (tuition, fees, room and board) for their undergraduate studies at the University of Maryland. The heart of the University of Maryland Incentive Awards Program is the development of individual character, community, responsibility and leadership within an intimate community of peers, advisors and faculty mentors. The cohort students that form the core of this community benefit from outstanding academic and support programs and are also active in their home activities as role models for future incentive Award candidates.