UCI First-Gen Program Impact

2021-2022

Budo Accelerator partnered with UCI to run a revolutionary support program for first-generation students in the 2021-2022 academic year. Participating students demonstrated impressive gains in leadership, career readiness and social emotional wellbeing - all while building skill in the non-competitive martial art of aikido.

About the Students

First-generation students are the first in their families to go to college. They are likely to have a lower-income background, almost 2/3rds of them work while attending college, and nationally, 33% leave college within their first three years. These young people have tremendous potential but face many challenges. We provide first-gen students with programs that empower them to to create a better future for themselves, their communities, and our global society.

Demographics of our UCI First-Gen students

Ethnicity

Gender

100%

felt encouraged to take a risk and try something new, even when it seems difficult to do.
92%

reported leaving the program with good or great career knowledge and skills.
100%

of students would “definitely recommend” the program to a friend.
77%

received opportunities to meet and connect with new people.
100%

believe the program created an environment where mistakes are celebrated as an opportunity to learn and grow.