For nearly 100 years, Xavier University of Louisiana has educated the next generation of leaders and agents of positive change by providing resources developed to uplift and elevate the students who walk its hallowed halls. One of these programs, CARE at Xavier University of Louisiana, is an integrated and holistic program focusing on first-year, first-generation students. The program provides targeted support for students during their first year of college.

The program effectively incorporates the four pillars of Xavier University of Louisiana: Career Development, Academic Efficacy, Resilience, and Engagement by collaborating closely with campus departments that focus on each pillar. An illustration of this is how the program promotes first-generation Academic Efficacy. CARE closely collaborates with Academic Advisors from The Office of Student Success to ensure students meet their academic goals. It’s also an advantage that three of the CARE Coaches are located within The Office of Student Success and serve as Academic Advisors.

XULA CARE is an experience unlike any other and has been a valuable part of Xavier Junior Year Adora Goodluck’s journey as an undergraduate and first-generation college student.  

“I felt hesitant to utilize helpful resources that were provided to me and to form relationships with students and staff. I felt insecure about my presence on campus and getting through undergrad," said Goodluck.

Goodluck credits the program with helping her realize her full potential. She also expresses gratitude for the CARE coaches and colleagues that helped guide her through the challenges she faced during her first year, especially as the first person in her family to enter college.

“They [the coaches] reminded me that everyone defines their success, and that comparison is neither healthy nor necessary for growth. I felt less anxious about meeting someone else's expectations and instead began making realistic goals that motivated me to achieve what I define as success. With that, I began to succeed,” said Goodluck.

CARE has an exciting lineup of fall events in partnership with The Office of Student Success (SASO) and The Office of Career Services (OCS). The first event for first-generation students was held on August 30 and was a ‘Sip and Dip Meet and Greet.’ The event gave students an opportunity to connect with mentors and an employer partner, gaining insights into job and internship prospects.