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Foster youth success initiative program

Student Transition & Academic Retention Team (START) @ DVC

The Student Transition & Academic Retention Team (START) @ DVC is the Foster Youth Success Initiative program at Diablo Valley College. Our mission is to promote access to all available resources at Diablo Valley College and lay the foundation for student success.

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How can START help you?

START @ DVC is a program that supports current and former foster youth with their educational journey at DVC. We know that college can be very challenging and intimidating but the Student Transition & Academic Retention Team (START) is here to help you. Your START Coordinators will serve as your liaisons and you can turn to them at any point of your college career. They can guide you in the right direction to be successful at DVC. Regular check-ins with your START Coordinators are encouraged and you can also expect the following:

  • Check-in opportunities with START Coordinators on a regular basis
  • Assistance with the Diablo Valley College application process, which may include the following:
    • application form
    • assessment
    • attaining a student ID card
    • setting up a counseling appointment
    • campus tour
  • Assistance with the financial aid process, which may include the following:
    • Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
    • Board of Governors (BOG) Fee Waiver
    • Chafee Grant
    • scholarships
  • Assistance with Extended Opportunity Programs & Services (EOPS), which may include the following:
    • EOPS application process
    • academic counseling
    • tutoring
    • priority registration
    • book vouchers
    • some financial assistance
    • Summer Institute
  • Personal Counseling/Mentoring
  • Specialized workshop series and college exploration tours
  • Referrals to other campus resources (Tutoring, Transfer Center, Career & Employment, Student Life, Disability Support Services, etc.)
  • Referrals to community resources
  • Social gatherings
    • Welcome Back Luncheon
    • Recognition Dinner for graduates and transfer students
    • mentorship opportunities
  • START Scholarship Program

 

If you are a current or former foster youth and would like more information about START @ DVC, please contact:

Rudolf Rose
START Coordinator
Financial Aid
rrose@dvc.edu
925-969-2097

    

Lindsay Kong
START Coordinator
EOPS
lkong@dvc.edu
925-969-2129
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