Rise Up & Achieve Student Application

Program Overview 

Rise Up & Achieve is a student success ecosystem designed to support historically underserved and underrepresented students at GRCC. By engaging in academic coaching, identity development, mentorship, wellness support, and leadership experiences, students gain the “ICLAWS” they need to rise up and achieve.

Student Expectations and Commitments 

• Join at least one Rise Up Community Circle and attend at least one affiliated event or meeting per semester
• Meet with my assigned Student Ambassador (peer mentor) and faculty/staff Mentor at least once per month.
• Respond to mentor and staff communications in a timely manner.
• Participate in required academic coaching sessions and maintain consistent academic progress throughout the year.
• Attend at least one Rise Up workshop or event per semester, focusing on topics such as leadership, financial literacy, identity, academic resilience or wellness.
• Use at least one GRCC academic or support resource (e.g., tutoring, counseling, advising) per semester.
• Abide by the GRCC Student Code of Conduct and uphold respectful, inclusive behavior toward fellow students, mentors and staff.
• Complete all intake, mid-semester and end-of-semester program forms and surveys.

Incentive Eligibility 

I understand that in order to remain eligible for incentives such as scholarships, gift cards, swag, transportation assistance, and emergency grants, I must:

• Maintain active status by meeting all outlined program expectations.
• Attend at least 80% of required workshops, events and mentorship meetings each semester.
• Submit all required documentation by stated deadlines.
• Demonstrate need for financial or material support when applicable.

Violations and Program Removal

I understand that failure to uphold my responsibilities may result in:

• A probationary warning with a performance improvement plan.
• Ineligibility for Rise Up & Achieve benefits and financial support.
• Violation of Student Code & Conduct
• Removal from the Rise Up & Achieve program after repeated non-compliance.

Digital Citizenship and Communication 

I will:

• Regularly check and respond to communication from WCIMA staff and mentors via my GRCC email and phone.
• Use Rise Up & Achieve digital tools and platforms (Canvas/Blackboard, texting apps, calendars) appropriately and professionally.

Student Acknowledgement

I acknowledge that participation in Rise Up & Achieve is a privilege. I understand that this agreement outlines the expectations I must uphold to receive the full benefits of the program.