After arriving late Friday evening, undergraduate students from The Achievement Award Program (TAAP) began Saturday at the Camp Blue Breakfast Bar. A Grounding Circle followed, which set intentions for the orientation for each individual student. ASP staff hosted workshops for scholars on how to succeed at UC Berkeley, covering topics such as goal setting and time management. TAAP scholars learned about various organizations that offer support to students, including the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS).
As this orientation weekend was at the beginning of the fall semester, scholars set goals for their coming academic term, identifying their personal priorities as well as their support networks. This weekend encouraged students to plan their educational objectives thoughtfully. Staff were available to answer students’ questions, helping ensure each scholar’s success.
“Our scholars are brilliant and very independent, and we want to remind them that asking for support is a skill and strength.”
Johanna “Yoyo” Romero ’15,
Program Manager, Student Support
“The Incoming Scholars Orientation gives scholars an opportunity to find a community and sense of belonging to support them in navigating UC Berkeley, which is a large and fast-paced campus,” explained Johanna “Yoyo” Romero ’15, program manager, student support.
“Our scholars, who have first-gen, low-income backgrounds, thrive when they have a village of support through their Cal journey. Through the orientation, we also emphasize the importance of defining success for yourself (especially because it’s so easy to compare yourself to others on campus), to know your values, and to ask for support. Our scholars are brilliant and very independent, and we want to remind them that asking for support is a skill and strength.”
A trip to the Lair of the Golden Bear would not be complete without a visit to Pinecrest Lake. Scholars and staff packed lunches and headed off on a beautiful walk to the lake. Once there, students enjoyed lunch, swam and some even completed an additional hike to Strawberry Dam.
After returning from the lake, scholars enjoyed free time at the Lair. Some students made lanyards and tie-dyed T-shirts, while others swam in the pool.
Following dinner, scholars and ASP staff engaged in community-building through storytelling, followed by s’mores and a late-night swim.
With new connections and communication lines established, scholars and staff enjoyed one final Camp Blue breakfast Sunday morning before packing up and heading back to Cal.
Learn more about The Achievement Award Program.
