Published August 22, 2024
NYU Opportunity Programs Build Confidence and Community
When Emelyn Martínez Morales applied to NYU, she checked a box to be considered for its opportunity programs. What she didn’t know then, however, was that checking that box would bring her a sense of belonging and connection. What’s more, it would help her gain confidence in pursuing her career goals.
As a first-generation college student who experienced poverty growing up, Emelyn felt that she wasn’t destined to attend a prestigious university. Then, “I received an email indicating that I was being considered for the Opportunity Programs community,” Emelyn recalls. “When I joined the information session, I knew this program would offer a welcoming environment with abundant resources to help me succeed.”
NYU’s Opportunity Programs include the Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) and the Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP). HEOP assists low-income New York residents, while CSTEP helps low-income New York students prepare for careers in scientific, technical, or health-related fields. Additionally, NYU offers the precollege Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP). STEP helps historically underrepresented high school students in New York State prepare for college studies in science, technology, engineering, and math. These programs not only provide financial assistance but also offer students support systems like counseling, a community of peers, and access to academic assistance.
Building a Lasting Community
NYU’s Opportunity Programs begin with a six-week summer program to help participants adjust to life on campus. While learning study skills and taking a noncredit introductory course, students get to know each other and their instructors.
For John Ovalles, a sophomore majoring in Computer Science at the College of Arts and Science (CAS), HEOP has proven invaluable. Here, he’s found a community of like-minded friends. Born and raised in Washington Heights, he takes comfort in connecting with fellow students who share his New York City upbringing. “We’ve lived in the city and had similar daily experiences. Maybe they went through similar things, and we can talk it out and just grow as people,” says John. Today, he continues to cultivate these friendships through the Opportunity Programs’ weekly colloquium. It brings together small groups of students to meet with advisers, review resources, and discuss any challenges they’re facing.
Laying a Foundation for the Future
In an academically rigorous environment like NYU, it can be challenging to find the right balance. That’s where advisers come in. Samantha Riano, a recent graduate in sociology, was also a part of HEOP. She’d always dreamed of attending medical school after graduation. Now, thanks to her advisers, she’s on her way. She even worked as a medical assistant for a dermatology office while she pursues her studies. “For the first time, all the internships and ‘adult’ jobs were in the palm of my hand,” Samantha reflects. “My advisers continuously encouraged me to never give up. Because of that, I now have a job that I love.”
Similarly, Emelyn credits CSTEP’s programs for helping her refine her career plans. A junior majoring in Politics at CAS, she hopes to attend law school after graduation. There, she wants to work on issues related to racial equity and access to education. As a research assistant through the Collegiate Research Initiative, she already coauthored a published article in The Journal of College and University Law. “These experiences helped me shape a clearer path for my future,” attests Emelyn. “They opened numerous opportunities to achieve my goals.”
In addition to HEOP, CSTEP, and STEP, NYU’s opportunity programs include the College Access Leadership Institute (CALI), a tuition-free summer program for rising high school seniors on how to navigate the college admissions process. Furthermore, the Community College Transfer Opportunity Program (CCTOP) offers a scholarship and academic support to students transferring from partnership community colleges into NYU.
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