A Next-Generation Program for the First-Generation
Budo Accelerator is thrilled to announce our new partnership with UC Irvine. For the 2021-2022 academic year, we’ll be running a new program for first-generation college students (first in their families to ever go to college).
This groundbreaking program will be led directly by Josh Gold, the CEO of Budo Accelerator, and Michael Dennin, the Vice Provost and Dean of the Department of Undergraduate Education at UCI, who is known nationwide as a leading innovator in developing support programs for first-generation college students.
Participating students will earn academic credit, get introduced to the martial art of aikido, and learn a unique approach to leadership that has been recognized and put into practice by leaders in government, business, nonprofit organizations, and even the U.S. military. They’ll explore the physics behind the martial arts and meet and engage with mentors and advisors who will boost students’ career readiness and open new doors for personal, academic, and professional opportunities. And outside of core program hours, students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in aikido training at a traditional dojo. Students will be provided with point to point transportation between UCI and Ikazuchi Dojo in Irvine.
“UCI is a top 10 public research university and a nationwide leader in programs for first-generation college students, with nearly 14,000 at the university. We’re excited to partner with Budo Accelerator for this innovative program as a new way to help first-generation students succeed here at UCI, and beyond. We have big plans for this program and look forward to kicking off our first session this fall.”
“Budo Accelerator is thrilled to collaborate with UCI on this unique program. Our work with high-school students has been a great success and we can’t think of a better partner than UCI to help us translate that success to programs for first-generation college students. We’re committed to making a big impact with this initiative.”
Why First-Generation?
First-generation students are a beacon of hope for society and bring valuable perspectives and strengths to those whose lives they touch. Still, there are many challenges these students face. In addition to financial and academic challenges, they face psychological and social challenges and must overcome even more obstacles transitioning from college into the workforce.
First-gen students are likely to have a lower-income family background, and according to the Education Advisory Board (EAB), 33% of first-generation students leave college within three years of starting. Many take out large student loans to pay for school and have a job throughout their college career. If they drop out, they end up with the added financial burden of student loan debt with no degree, putting them at higher risk of negative outcomes.
Budo Accelerator is committed to providing first-generation students with programs that will help them be successful at college and empower them to create a better future for themselves, their communities, and our global society.
Budo Accelerator is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and no accepted student is turned away for lack of funds or martial arts experience. First-generation students at UCI can apply now for Winter 2021 and Spring 2022 quarters here.
Join us in bringing this program to life!
Budo Accelerator, Inc. is a certified 501(c) educational nonprofit.