Asian Pacific American Student Affairs (APASA) presents its new signature retention program targeting incoming first-year students at the University of Arizona. The primary goal of the EDGE program is to increase the retention and graduation rates of Asian American and Pacific Islander students by focusing on four pillars of success: Engagement, Diversity, Growth, and Excellence. Students participating in the EDGE program gain a positive support system for academic and social development through guidance by Retention and Education Peers (REPs), connecting with a cohort of peers, and participating in workshops, cultural events, and service-learning opportunities. The EDGE program is open to all students!
EDGE Participants
Selected students will be chosen to participate in the elite APASA EDGE Program for a full academic year. APASA EDGE Program participants will be placed in REP led clusters with their peers and receive resources and valuable skill sets to help them be successful in traversing the college experience.
Objectives:
By participating in the EDGE program, participants will:
- acquire important knowledge, skills, and social connections to achieve their goals
- develop connections and commitments to the UA community
- engage in active learning about issues related to diversity, growth, and excellence
To apply to be an EDGE Participant : Click Here (Incoming Freshmen only!)
Applications are due July 15th. All applicants will be notified of their acceptance into the EDGE program by July 31st.
If you have any questions about EDGE, please contact Dan Xayaphanh at danthaix@email.arizona.edu or call 520-626-6860.
Retention and Education Peers (REPs)
Selected high-achieving upper division students will be selected and trained as REPs, who will lead a cluster of EDGE participants for a full academic year and serve as representatives for APASA to the larger campus community. REPs will have weekly responsibilities each month, including
- Managing and coordinating a cluster of 3-7 EDGE participants
- Presenting curriculum to their cluster groups, entire EDGE program, and selected outreach areas.
- Having one-on-one meetings with EDGE cluster members
- Researching and accomplishing service learning projects
- Evaluating and assessing EDGE participant engagement and progress of their academic and personal goals
- Duties as assigned
Each month will feature a selected topic focusing on skill-development for all EDGE participants. REPs will receive a semesterly stipend.
