University Crossroads

Institution:

The University of Texas at Arlington

State:

Texas

Academic Level:

Community-Based Organization

Issue Area:

Access

Program Focus:

College Prep, Community Partnerships/Collective Impact

Website:

https://www.uta.edu/universitycrossroads/

Key Personnel:

Michelle Bobadilla

Contact Info:

bobadilla@uta.edu | 817.272.9377

Overview

University Crossroads provides Latino, first- and second-generation 6th - 12th grade students academic and support programs that academically, financially, socially, and culturally prepare them for educational pursuits beyond high school. Its goal is to expand access to and success in higher education for first- and second-generation students from low- to moderate-income households.

Program Description

University Crossroads was founded in 1986 with 13 charter members and has grown into an award-winning partnership of 90 colleges and universities, chambers of commerce, nonprofit organizations, businesses, professional associations, North Texas school districts, and charter schools.

University Crossroads offers 6th through 12th grade students free programming centered on creating a college-going culture among students and parents. Through academic, social, cultural engagement, and leadership programming, University Crossroads provides Latino students and families access and equity opportunities that lead to success. Specific college-readiness offerings include Las Llaves del Exito, a fair designed to help Latino students and families navigate the college admissions process, FAFSA workshops, and financial literacy sessions—presented in English and Spanish—that address higher education affordability challenges. To address the financial hurdles of attending college, in addition to facilitating financial aid workshops, University Crossroads coordinates financial literacy classes and raises scholarship money for students. Each year, Crossroads helps numerous North Texas students prepare for the SAT with Math tutoring classes. The sessions are open to all high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors in public, private, and charter schools and home-schooled students.

Outcome

Increased college access: During 2019-2020, 19,270 students were exposed to post-secondary options and more than 4,000 students applied for financial aid through the help of University Crossroads.
Increased college enrollment: During 2019-2020, 3,020 students were accepted to a post-secondary education program. 3,000 students matriculated through the help of University Crossroads.
Increased college graduation: During 2019-2020, 974 students graduated from college, obtained a technical college degree, or obtained a degree from a community college within 4 years. During 2018-2019, 881 students received a degree within 4 years.