The PICOS project is recruiting 38 first generation college Hispanic freshmen with declared majors in mathematics, chemistry, engineering, or engineering technology. Rural, low income Hispanic families often view college as out of reach. To break down that barrier, PICOS is retaining these students with financial aid and support based on Tarleton's existing student success initiatives including a mentoring safety net. Another important feature of this program is to provide industry role models, exposure to STEM careers, and career and graduate placement assistance to the scholarship students.
The intellectual merit of this project lies in its management plan. The management team consists of faculty from four disciplines, a STEM recruiter, and staff from Financial Aid, Scholarship, Career Services and the Division of General Studies. The students are provided with a "learning family" support network that includes faculty advisors, peer mentors, and industry role models.
The broader impact of the PICOS project lies in the recruitment and support of rural, first-generation college, Hispanic students who are economically disadvantaged to STEM education opportunities. Tarleton is increasing the diversity of enrolled students by building strong relationships with the Hispanic community.
