In Fall 2021, the Cuesta College University Transfer & Career Center launched a new program specifically designed for students in populations that have been historically marginalized in education. This means they do not have, or have not had, the same advantages as other student groups. University Bound is for students within these groups, and is designed to provide comprehensive transfer support throughout the student's time at Cuesta College. 
  
Navigating through college and transfer planning can be challenging, and our goal is to provide all of the information and support needed to have a successful and smooth transfer. Please read through the following questions/answers to determine if this program is the right fit for you.  

Is this program for me?

To qualify for the University Bound program you must have a goal of transfer and meet at least one of the criteria below:

  • First generation college student- meaning your parents did not graduate from college
  • Identify with a historically underrepresented student group  
    • Historically Underrepresented Minority (HURM) students are members of groups that have “historically comprised a minority of the US population.” This typically includes African Americans, American Indians/Alaskan Natives, Hispanics, Asian and Pacific Islanders.
  • Students from low-income families (that qualify for California College Promise Grant)
  • Undocumented, DACA or AB 540 student
  • Foster Youth
  • Students with disabilities (must also plan to receive services from the Cuesta College DSPS Department)

Why should I join? 

The University Bound Program has many benefits and perks, which include:

  • Transfer counselor assistance to help you with transfer planning and process
  • Connecting with other students in the program
  • Free university tours
  • Financial planning information, including university cost, financial aid info, and scholarships  
  • Application assistance
  • Guidance from students who have successfully transferred

What will the requirements be?

Students in the University Bound program will be required to do the following in order to keep their spot in the program:

  • Maintain a goal of transfer
  • Meet and engage in a counseling session at least once a semester
  • Participate in a minimum of one online workshop per semester hosted by University Bound counselors or the Cuesta College University Transfer/Career Center
  • Meet with career counselor as needed
  • Actively engage in University Bound communications (emails/canvas/social media)

How do I join? 

Step 1: Click here to apply
Step 2:  You will be contacted by our University Transfer Center Specialist via email with instructions on how to get started.

Who can I contact for more information?

Feel free to reach out with any questions at transfer@cuesta.edu.

University Bound Mission

The University Bound Program is a support program within the University Transfer/Career Center designed to provide intentional and comprehensive transfer support to students from groups who have been traditionally underrepresented in education (such as racially minoritized students, first-generation college students, students with disabilities, students from low-income households, foster youth, and undocumented students). University Bound will provide students with the knowledge required to make informed decisions in their development of a plan, assist students through the transfer process, and ensure a successful transition from Cuesta College to a four-year university.

Program Goals

  1. Inform students of all essential information related to successful transfer:
    1. Major/university requirements
    2. Transfer process and timeline
    3. Online resources
    4. Financial considerations and planning
  2. Guide students through the progression of critical transfer steps, ensuring completion and accuracy
  3. Connect students with each other, Counselors, University Representatives, Success Coaches, Financial Aid Specialists and Peer Mentors
  4. Engage students with strategic and cordial email outreach and proactive advising when needed
  5. Create memorable experiences that inspire and motivate (i.e., campus tours, graduation celebration)
  6. Monitor enrollment, CSEP (Comprehensive Student Educational Plan) completion, workshop attendance, and academic progress of each student
  7. Collect and review data to determine program effectiveness and identify areas that need improvement