S.o.L is a network of students, staff and faculty dedicated to assisting Latino males in navigating their academic pursuit and attaining the degree of their choice. The men of S.o.L engage in career preparation, social interaction and community service in an effort to maximize their own personal and professional development.
Purpose of S.o.L
Our mission is to help Latino males achieve success in college, S.o.L hopes to improve their retention and graduation rates for Latinos at NIU. Through the program we also help students create and prioritize goals, make decisions, and feel more independent and confident.
Activities
Motivational Speakers.
Academic Achievements.
Social Outings.
Mentoring.
Leadership Development.
Professional Development.
Community Services.
Benefits of participation in S.o.L
Opportunity to engage in career preparation, social interaction and community services in an effort to maximize your own personal and professional development.
Excellent student support services for Latino males.
Academic progress reports mailed to professors at the 6 and 12 week points of each semester to monitor student performance in the classroom.
Networking opportunities with other Latino males who are proud of their academic achievements and professional development.
Access to the Director of Retention Programs who will as an advocate to assist you with any issues or problems regarding college life.
Positive feedback for striving to use your intellect and for doing well academically, which includes a 3.0 GPA recognition club.
Providing strong University leadership on the challenges facing Latino youth and men.
Access to mentors and consolers who will help students with any problems they might be facing in their transition from high school to college.
Latino Male Facts
Over 25% of Latino men 25 and over in the United States have less than a 9th grade education, compared to 7% of all males in the United States. (2004 U.S. Census Bureau).
College enrollment for Latino males has changed. In 1976, Latino males represented 55% of Latinos in higher education. In 2004, 41% of all Latinos enrolled in higher education were male. (NCES).
The number of Latino males earning college degrees is increasing, but this number has increased more quickly for females. Between 1976 and 2004, the number of Latino males earning bachelors degrees increased 260% while females increased 580%. (NCES).
Interested?
Weekly S.o.L Meetings
When: Thursdays
Time: 5.00 p.m.
Where: Latino Resource Center