EOI Scholars program
The EOI Scholars program engages UM-Flint students personally, offering individualized coaching to help students address barriers to academic success. We also connect students with peers through our mentoring program and social events. We are a family of scholars that support each other through college and beyond.
Our goals include:
- Increasing your GPA
- Advancing you to the next level
- Your graduation and a successful career!
EOI scholars are well-known on campus and in the Flint community for their excellence and achievements. If you want to join a strong family of scholars, consider joining the EOI Scholars program! We will guide you every step of the way from your freshman year through graduation. We believe that the best support is catered to your own unique strengths, skills, interests and goals. The EOI family includes a wide variety of students in all academic standings and majors.
A Legacy of Opportunity and Community Impact
For more than seven decades, the EOI Scholars Program has remained a cornerstone of student support at the University of Michigan-Flint, rooted in a deep commitment to educational access and community engagement. Evolving through multiple programs and initiatives, its legacy reflects a strong partnership with local schools, dedicated leadership, and a mission to uplift students in Flint. Guided by the Sankofa philosophy of learning from the past to shape the future, the program continues to honor its history while expanding opportunities for the next generation of scholars.
What We Offer: EOI Scholars are Your Community of Support
The EOI Scholars program guides you every step of the way from your freshman year through graduation. We believe that the best support is catered to your own unique strengths, skills, interests and goals. This is why we have moved away from a “one size fits all” promise scholar model and shifted toward our new EOI tracks that launch every fall semester. The EOI family includes a wide variety of students in all academic standings and majors. We created a series of EOI tracks that will engage every EOI scholar in the way that best fits you! Please read the descriptions of each track below and, most importantly, watch all the videos of track leaders summarizing the expectations for each opportunity.
First Year Experience | FYE
Leader | Maya Jefferson
Bachelor of Science in Psychology ’24
We know that the transition to university life can be both exciting and challenging. That is why we have created the EOI Scholars first year experience track specifically designed to support our first year students here at UM-Flint as you begin your awesome collegiate journey! Throughout the year, we will offer a variety of tools, workshops, activities, and study tables centered around helping you build a strong sense of community and belonging. Our goal is to make sure each of you feels supported and empowered as you navigate your first year. Let’s do something fantastic and start your college experience off great!
First At Michigan | FAM
Founder | Martez Johnson
Congratulations on taking a big step and pursuing your education. We know it is hard. As a first-generation student, you are a trailblazer. We are here to support you every step of the way. Our mission at FAM is to provide you with the resources, community, and guidance to navigate the unique challenges you may face as the first in your family to attend college. We understand that without parents who have experienced college, you may encounter difficulties in understanding the college system, managing your time, or having a sense of belonging. That is why we created a series of events and resources tailored just for you, all designed to empower you and help you succeed academically and personally. Being part of the FAM means you are never alone. You will connect with other first-generation students who share experiences and mentors who guide you through your college journey. We encourage you to take full advantage of what FAM has to offer. Attend our events, reach out for support, and become an active member in our community. Welcome to FAM: Where your success is our priority!
Mr. Be Great!
Host | Roy Shavers
Roy Shavers, Academic Success Specialist, will motivate you with his series of “Mr. Be Great!” short videos. Mr. Be Great will inspire you to always… always… BE GREAT!!! This series of short videos guides students toward success. Mr. Be Great asks you to think about what it takes to eat! You need tenacity, discipline, and hard work. Success is earned. You need to put in the effort and prioritize your goals even if it seems hard now. Don’t miss any opportunities and don’t let anything slip away. Grab it! You have the choice and the power to choose. Every decision you make moves you closer to success or further from it. Think about the decisions you are making and remember: Always make good choices and always, always, BE GREAT!!!
How EOI Scholars Program Helps You
- Academic Advising: Work one-on-one with an advisor who helps you choose courses, plan your degree path, and stay on track to graduate on time.
- Career Services: Get support with résumé building, interview preparation, job and internship searches, and developing a plan for life after graduation.
- Financial Literacy: Learn practical skills for managing your money, including budgeting, understanding financial aid, and planning for long-term financial goals.
- Instruction in Academic/Social Basic Skills: Build a strong foundation in the essential academic and interpersonal skills you need to thrive in a university setting.
- Learning/Study Skills: Develop effective strategies for note-taking, test preparation, reading comprehension, and other study habits that lead to academic success.
- Mentoring: Connect with experienced mentors who provide guidance, encouragement, and support as you navigate your college journey.
- Networking Opportunities: Attend events and workshops that connect you with peers, faculty, alumni, and professionals in your field of interest.
- Personal Counseling: Access confidential support to help you manage stress, overcome personal challenges, and maintain your overall well-being.
- Research Opportunities: Gain hands-on experience by participating in faculty-led research projects that strengthen your skills and enhance your academic portfolio.
- Time Management: Learn techniques to balance coursework, work, and personal responsibilities so you can make the most of your time at UM-Flint.
- Tutorial Services: Receive free peer and professional tutoring in a variety of subjects to reinforce what you’re learning in the classroom.
- Writing Labs: Get personalized feedback on papers, essays, and other writing assignments at any stage of the writing process.
Our Model
We work together to ensure you succeed and reach your career goals through education. Our seven Career Pathways programs are all built to support you.
Career Pathways Table alternative to image
Career Pathways outlines how students move from high school through higher education and into careers or academia, supported by key programs at each stage.
Adapted from Michigan Talent Investment Agency, Department of Talent and Economic Development: Youth Services Pipeline.
High School
Programs at the high school level prepare students for the transition to college. These programs feed into both 2-year community colleges and 4-year universities.
| Program | Leads To |
|---|---|
| Wolverine Pathways | 2-Year Community College, 4-Year University |
| GEAR UP | 2-Year Community College, 4-Year University |
| College Day | 2-Year Community College, 4-Year University |
| Upward Bound | 2-Year Community College, 4-Year University |
2-Year Community College
| Program | Leads To |
|---|---|
| MICUP | 4-Year University, Career |
4-Year University
| Program | Leads To |
|---|---|
| EOI Scholars | Graduate School (Future Faculty), Career |
| MICUP | Career |
| Educator Development | Career |
Graduate School
| Program | Leads To |
|---|---|
| Future Faculty | Academia (Visiting Professor), Career |
Academia
| Program | Leads To |
|---|---|
| Visiting Professor | Career |
Our Funding
EOI Scholars are supported by the following:
- Bridges to the Future Endowment
- Barry and Denise Trantham Endowment
- Mukkamala and Kulkarni Family Scholarship Fund
- Jeanetta & Charlie Nelms Scholarship Fund
- State of Michigan LEO – Select Student Support Services (4S) Program