INSPIRE Portfolio | Ruth Williams

The DEGREES Project

  

Program Summary slide: download here Links to an external site.

Peer Network Online Intercultural Competence Activity

The intercultural competence activity I facilitated was the Goals Continuum. In this activity, participants answer a series of questions that lead up to identifying their goals and purpose, and the steps they need to take to get there. Once their goals are identified, the facilitator leads a conversation  regarding their values. As indicated in the activity, culture automatically impacts an individuals goals. It is important to be mindful of the impact their culture has on their lives, decisions, and everyday dialogue. 

This activity is not at all challenging, however, the purpose is to make individuals cautiously think and develop a plan of action if they do not already have one. This activity can be conducted multiple times. It is also helpful to conduct before and after a given task to weigh the progress.

This activity can be easily lead virtually or in-person. The idea is to generate a series of questions that the current group of participants can identify with based on culture and shared experiences. Using a Jamboard not only allows the facilitator and participants to view what others have said, but it is an alternative way to promote engagement.

 

Intercultural Competence Activity Material for Goals Continuum

Goals Continuum - Google Jamboard Links to an external site.  

Peer Network Program Evaluation Plan

•  During the 2020-2021 year, we have hired 9 DEGREES Project Coaches
• The DEGREES Project currently servers over 12,000 URM students

  Virtual Service Plan

  • • Workshops: The DEGREES Project will continue to offer virtual academic skill development workshops to all URM students on Zoom.
    • Mentoring, Coaching, & Advising: Students can book Zoom appointments with our faculty advisors or coaches  via EAB (Links to an external site.) .
    • Class Visits:
      •  The DEGREES Coaches visit courses within their colleges and do short presentations on the program and available resources.

Student Testimonials:

• “DEGREES Project has helped me understand the different paths that will help me succeed to my full potential. They’ve been overall helpful and informative.”
• “DEGREES Project gave me more guidance for my next semester choice of classes.”
• "Ultimately, DEGREES gave me the clarity and planning I needed to lessen my burden, relieve my stress, and -more importantly- help me have a smooth graduation! I am grateful for the DEGREES! It's a program that everyone needs to take advantage of! Thank you, DEGREES, for all that was done for me!”

• "Although everything has gone virtual it is important to realize that you are never truly alone. DEGREES is a program that has consistently proven itself in that subset. Throughout the semester, the DEGREE staff have constantly helped me in my academics, morally and career opportunities. This program is the backbone for a successful college semester if utilized."

Program Staff

  

 

This work was supported by the Developing Hispanic Serving Institution Project INSPIRE