The success of Three Diné College Students at Vassar College Exploring Transfer Program Highlights Transformative Academic Experience
30th July 2024
Tsaile, AZ – Diné College announced the exceptional achievements of three Diné College students in the Vassar Exploring Transfer (ET) Program this summer. The program has proven to be a transformative experience that changed their academic journeys while doing personal growth. Three Diné College students participated in the ET Program. The selected students, Autumn C. Russell, Jessica L. Taylor, and Tylia S. Begaye, each have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and a deep commitment to personal and community development, making them ideal representatives for this program.
They joined a diverse cohort from various nations and institutions. The multicultural exchange created a learning environment, aligning with recent research that underscores the role of multicultural education in developing global citizenship and critical thinking skills. Transitioning from reservation life to off-campus academic settings presented unique challenges. However, the students showcased remarkable resilience and adaptability, actively engaging in rigorous coursework and thought-provoking discussions on topics ranging from psychology to social justice.
Immersive academic experiences have been shown to impact Native American students’ retention and achievement positively. “Students often face significant challenges, such as homesickness, culture shock, and unfamiliarity with academic rigor, which sometimes leads them to consider leaving the program. However, having peers who share similar values and experiences can make all the difference in helping them persevere and succeed,” said Thomas Bennett, Associate Director of Student Affairs at Diné College. “The Vassar College experience was undoubtedly a challenge for our three students, and we are incredibly proud of their determination to overcome these obstacles. This resilience is precisely what Diné College instills in our students.” The collaborative efforts between Diné College staff and Vassar College were instrumental in ensuring a seamless experience for our students.
Diné College is dedicated to expanding such transformative opportunities for its students. By enhancing retention and success rates among Native American students, programs like the Vassar ET Program serve as a model for promoting cultural pride, academic excellence, and global engagement.
To learn more about the Vassar ET Program, you may send an email to the Office of Student Engagement & Leadership with Student Affairs at stuenglead@dinecollege.edu.
