This academic year, Cal State Fullerton expanded its Guardian Scholars program by providing support to about 40 foster youth on top of the 47 in the program. The new entrants receive all the services offered program participants — life-skills workshops, community enrichment activities, counseling and access to a student lounge and computer lab — with the exception of a full scholarship.
RELATED ARTICLE: Only 3% of former foster children graduate college. Here’s how universities are working to change that
“After researching the CSUF foster youth population who were not in the Guardian Scholars program, we learned that many were struggling to succeed in college,” said Yajayra Tovar, assistant director of the Center for Scholars, which oversees the program.
In addition, 23 students from the two groups participated in a three-day summer program to ease the transition to college. Activities included a student panel, self-identity workshop and introduction to campus resources. Students received gifts from Orangewood Foundation, OC United, Together We Rise and Bed Bath & Beyond, including bedding, pillows towels, hampers, bikes and gift cards.
To apply
The 2018-19 Guardian Scholars application is due March 2. Apply online.
Information: 657-278-3458 or scholars@fullerton.edu
The program depends partly on donations, which can be made online.
By the numbers
1998: Program started at Cal State Fullerton
3: Students in first year
130-plus: Guardian scholars who have received degrees
15: Students who joined in fall 2017, a record number
97 percent: Retention, persistence and graduation rate