Preparing Students in Two-Year Colleges for Success
At Four-Year Colleges
Joshua I. Villalobos El Paso Community College
Diane Doser University of Texas at El Paso
Background EL Paso Community College
30,000+ students (2011)85% Hispanic
Over 130 programs of studyGeological Sciences A.S.
5 campuses (6th by 2013) University of Texas at El Paso
22,000+students (2011)77% Hispanic
Geological Sciences B.S, M.S., Ph.D.
What attributes does UTEP look for?
associate’s degree or at least chemistry and precalculus – cannot start geosciences core without this
field or lab experience (knowing something about what a geologist does) -helps focus on long-term goals
basic computer skills- helps in securing on-campus support
motivation/passionvisiting with UTEP faculty at least a
semester before transferring
What issues do 2-YC students face?Financial - help in finding
scholarships/assistantships/work study
Social- other undergrads, meeting other faculty
Institutional- Getting through gauntlet of registration/ transfer/ advising
How do we track students?Department tracking is very goodCouncil Of Undergraduate Research
Initiatives (COURI)Strong alumni network, newsletter,
Facebook, Linked-In
What attributes does EPCC look for? Students who have the skill set, passion, and
determination to continue with geology. Issues that affect these attributes:Family obligation -breadwinner or single parentFinancial need- will they be able to afford the
tuition or the expenses of a 4YC (books, parking, Internet, computer)?
Distance-2YC multi-campuses vs. 4YC single campus.
Age- realistic education and career paths for those who are 41 vs 21
Education-English or math deficiencies
How do we track students? Key is first identifying students at the
2YC level in the geosciences, then:Having students register as geology
majors at 2YC Creating a working relationship with
students (this also helps in the transfer process and in tracking long term)
Clear understanding of the demands the educational path will require in terms of money, time, personal obligations.
Clear and streamlined degree plan (less Buffet more Menu approach) that reviewed and articulated with a 4YC
Research opportunities at the 2YC (SOLARIS)
How do we ensure 2YC student success?
SOLARIS research program provides non-traditional students:
Stipend of $1000/semester $500 for supplies/rentalsTravels for students to
presentations