Latinx Space for Enrichment and Research

What is LASER?

Originally established at the Ohio State University, LASER (Latinx Space for Enrichment Research) at UD is a research-based community program that will connect UD student mentors with high school mentees from Latinx and other communities underrepresented in higher education.

What is our mission?

LASER will provide resources, access, mentorship, and guidance to our LASER scholars, all with the intention of making college a tangible experience for the Latinx community and other underrepresented and historically excluded peoples.

Mentoring

LASER volunteers have the option to serve as a mentor for high school students. Mentors will go to local high schools for hour-long hub meetings once a week. In these meetings, mentors will support high school students academically and emotionally as they navigate the college prep process and their high school careers. Depending on the student’s grade level and the time of year, mentors may help students with homework, helpful study habits, SAT or ACT prep, summer program registration, scholarship applications, or the college application process.

Lectures

LASER volunteers will arrange for lectures to take place during some hub meetings throughout the school year. Lecturers will provide scholars with previews of college life or give advice about various topics in college preparation. Examples of guest lecturers include accomplished college students, members of college clubs and organizations, and staff members from the Office of Admissions at local colleges.

Family Workshops

Throughout the school year, LASER volunteers will set up workshops where scholars can invite their families to learn more about topics in college preparation or the college application process. Workshops will be available in both English and Spanish, and will cover topics like completing the FAFSA, financing college, earning college credits in high school, applying for DACA, and accessing college as an undocumented or first-generation student.

Community Days

Twice a year, LASER will shuttle high school students to the University of Delaware Newark Campus for themed community days. At these events, LASER volunteers will help high school students engage in activities with other students; network with local professionals of color; meet UD faculty, staff, and students; receive a school tour; and potentially observe a class that interests them.