Self Advocacy Peer Mentors

Reminders!

• Scholarships are due!

• UCSB Trip (Your participation matters)

• Final Paper

College 101:

Self-Advocacy

1) What does the word "advocate" mean?

College 101:

Self-Advocacy

1) What does the word "advocate" mean?

Answer: “An individual’s ability to effectively communicate, convey, negotiate or assert his or her own interests, desires, needs, and rights. It involves making informed decisions and taking responsibility for those decisions” (VanReusen et al., 1994).

An individual's ability to effectively communicate, convey, negotiate, or assert his or her own interests, desires, needs, and rights.

Why is this important?

Definition: Self- Advocacy

Why is self-advocacy important?

Answer:

It is important as you transition into college to understand what self-advocacy is and to develop skills that will empower you as you embark on your educational process. In the past, your parents or other adults may have made decisions for you or advocated on your behalf. Now that you are about to begin college you will need to know what your rights and responsibilities are in order to advocate for yourself.

Why do you believe it is important for First-generation college students to advocate for themselves?

Open Ended

Why do you believe it is important for First-generation students to advocate for themselves?

Open Ended

What do you currently self-advocate for?

Open Ended

What gets in the way of self-advocacy?

What gets in the way of self-advocacy?

• Fear, anxiety, & trauma - Ie. Fear of getting in trouble

• Knowledge Gaps & Lack of Access to information - Ie. Not having enough understanding. Not knowing who to contact to get help, what to ask for, or how to best use support.

• Limited Confidence in your Abilities - Ie. You may be reluctant to ask questions in class or request extra assistance.  

• Passivity - Being passive in your approach to your education, feeling that your future is beyond your control. Ie. This includes relying on your parents and teachers to advocate for you.  

First-generation low-income college students can practice self-advocacy by taking proactive steps to ensure their academic success and well-being. Here are some strategies that can help:

1.Know your rights and resources: Familiarize yourself with the policies
programs, and resources available to you at your college or university.

(This includes understanding your rights as a student, such as access to financial aid, scholarships, tutoring services, counseling services, and academic accommodations. Take advantage of workshops, orientations, and information sessions that provide guidance on navigating college as a first-generation student.)

2. Seek out mentors and support networks: Connect with faculty members,
staff, or upperclassmen who can serve as mentors or guides.

(They can provide valuable advice, support, and insights into navigating the college experience. Additionally, seek out student organizations or clubs that cater to first-generation and low-income students. These groups can offer a sense of community, peer support, and opportunities for networking.)

​3. Build relationships with professors and advisors: Take the initiative to build relationships with your professors and academic advisors.

(Attend office hours, introduce yourself, and express your goals and challenges. They can offer guidance, clarify expectations, and provide recommendations for resources that may be beneficial to you. Developing these connections can also be useful for securing letters of recommendation for scholarships, internships, or graduate school applications.)

​4. Communicate your needs and challenges: Don't hesitate to speak up and advocate for yourself.

(If you're facing academic or personal challenges, reach out to your professors or advisors to discuss potential solutions or accommodations. Whether it's seeking extensions for assignments, accessing tutoring services, or discussing financial concerns, communicating your needs is essential for finding the necessary support.)

5. Develop effective study and time management skills: Prioritize your
academic responsibilities by creating a study schedule, setting realistic goals,
and managing your time effectively.

(Seek out resources on campus, such as
study skills workshops or time management seminars, to enhance your skills in these areas. Taking control of your study habits can help you succeed academically and reduce stress.)

6. Take advantage of campus support services: Utilize the various support
services available on campus.

(This may include academic support centers, writing centers, career services, counseling services, and financial aid offices. These resources are often there to help you succeed and overcome obstacles. Don't hesitate to reach out for assistance when needed.)

7. Develop self-advocacy skills: Learn to speak up for yourself confidently and assertively. Practice articulating your needs, asking for help, and advocating for necessary accommodations.

(Developing self-advocacy skills will not only benefit you during college but also in your future professional and personal life.)

8. Stay informed and involved: Stay informed about changes in policies, deadlines, and opportunities on campus. Attend campus events, workshops, and meetings to stay connected and engaged.

(Being an active participant in your college community can provide you with valuable insights and opportunities for growth.)

​http://www.educationplanner.org/students/self-assessments/learning-styles-quiz.shtml

Remember, self-advocacy is a lifelong skill that extends beyond the college years. By practicing self-advocacy, you can empower yourself to overcome obstacles, navigate challenges, and make the most of your college experience.

Open Ended

What are some college resources you can utilize that will make you successful in college?

What resources can you utilize on your college campus to advocate for yourself and support your education?

• EOP

• Counseling (Psychological)

• Counseling (Major/Academic)

• Multicultural Center

• FYE

• Financial Aid Office

• Professor Office Hours

• Supplemental Instruction (an academic support model that uses peer learning to improve university student retention and student success in high-attrition courses.

• Library

Get your phones ready to respond to the questions on the following slides!

Multiple Choice

When you're confused by something, it's best to ask for help.

• True.

• False.

Multiple Choice

Self-advocacy means having the ability _______________.

• 
  to ask questions

• to speak up for yourself

• to ask for help

• 
  all of these

Multiple Choice

People that ask questions and ask for help learn more and are more likely to be ____________________.

• successful at work and at school

• 
  

  to be independent

• both of these

Multiple Choice

When asking a question or for help, it is important ____________.

• 
  not to plan your question

• 
  to be clear and specific

• 
  to be unclear (vague)

Multiple Choice

Which one of these choices is an example of self-advocacy?

• I took a difficult science course my freshman year and due to imposter syndrome, I stopped attending the class because I didn't think I was smart enough.

• I was short 1 unit to graduate, so I decided to wait another semester to graduate?

• I showed up to volleyball tryouts, but when I saw a sign outside that said "Proof of a Physical Required for try-out" I decided to go home, because I didn't know a physical would be required.

• I was close to failing a difficult course and I had no option to fail (being on academic probation). Although anxious and afraid, I decided to talk to my professor after class to ask about what options I had to pass the class.

Multiple Choice

Not being able to ask questions or for help harms your ability___________.

• 
  to learn

• 
  to be independent

• 
  both of these

Multiple Choice

Why is self advocacy important?

• 
  It is important because it empowers you to speak up for yourself and make decisions about your life.

• 
  Self advocacy isn't important

• Self advocacy is important because you can stand up for other people when they are being mistreated.

Multiple Choice

What are some things to know before you start trying to advocate for yourself?

• 1. Know your opponent's weaknesses and behaviors

• 1. Know how to make other angry and uncomfortable

• 1. Know your rights and have respect for others and yourself

• 1. Know your limitations and when you cannot win

Self-Advocacy Worksheet.

For the rest of the period, complete the tasks below!

1. Complete learning personality quiz.

2. Complete Self Advocacy worksheet.

3. Work on Scholarships (4 total so far).

4. Work on Final paper.