What is GTF-AS?

Dr. Scott Marzilli, Dean of University College and Chief Student Success Officer at UHD, has suggested the formation of a GTF student organization that would serve as a network for other Early College High School students attending UHD that are not participating in the GTF Scholars Program, but would benefit from academic and social connection with those who share a similar background. Many students who have transitioned from an ECHS experience are unable to build a support structure as they enroll in junior and senior level courses where they are the youngest in those classes and encounter challenges unique to a similar demographic profile. The organization could take on an essential but never before coordinated role in providing an avenue to access resources and offer mentoring opportunities that would develop naturally for a population whose needs differ from the mainstream. This initiative could potentially serve as a critical retention strategy campus-wide for many ECHS students trying desperately to fit in and find their way. The concept was presented and received enthusiastically by several who expressed an interest in helping to organize such an effort with the leadership of their GTF Peer Mentors.