This is a unique resume-building opportunity, a potentially transformative personal experience, and a chance to participate in the formation of an innovative new program for first-generation college students at the University of Michigan. The SOUL Program helps you succeed not only in college but helps you prepare for what happens next. Because being a first-gen college student is only the start. You’re going to be a first-gen lawyer, CEO, nurse, professor or whatever else you want to become and the skills you learn here to adapt will serve you throughout your life.
Okay, but what do I get?
Members of each SOUL cohort will receive the following opportunities:
- A position as a Research Assistant for the Barger Leadership Institute (BLI) and Department of Sociology ($15/hr). Conduct research on the needs of our first-generation majors—and help design solutions that respond to those needs.
- Paid attendance at the BLI’s seven-week Leadership Lab (a hands-on, interactive workshop specially designed to help students interested in developing leadership skills) and all BLI special events.
- Access to BLI’s Capstone Experience – $10,000 plus alumni advice in developing and implementing a fresh idea.
- Access to funding for summer opportunities, such as internships and summer abroad experiences.
- A 2-credit Sociology class open only to SOUL participants designed to discuss issues of class stratification and social mobility, as well as hone professionalization skills.
- Up to two hours a week of personalized tutoring for any required Sociology class.
- A peer mentor (a first-generation graduate student) who can help navigate the challenges of balancing university and family life.
How do I apply?
To apply, you must:
- Be a Sociology major OR declare by the start of the semester in which you join SOUL.
- Be a first-generation college student (meaning that neither one of your parents has a four-year college degree). There’s no need to prove this. We can verify this status with the university.
- Pay attention to our recruitment emails, or contact Dr. Matthew Sullivan at msulli@umich.edu.
If you want to apply, visit our Applications page.
Contact
Dr. Matthew Sullivan,
SOUL Program Director
(msulli@umich.edu)
Jill Hoppenjans,
Sociology Academic Program Manager
(soc-acad.prog.mgr@umich.edu)