Academic Scholars Program in Real Environments

No. We have students in the program from more than 40 different majors. ASPiRE is a program that is a flexible fit for students with varied interests.

ASPiRE is a great way to explore helping the community in an organized and facilitated fashion. Students are able to learn about the city of Richmond, meet other students and help the community with the guidance and oversight of qualified professional staff.

ASPiRE provides transportation to and from most events unless they are on-campus or in walking distance. No car, no worries!

Living in the building with other ASPiRE students is a critical part of a living-learning community. It is expected that all program participants live in West Grace South where they are guaranteed housing for the two years they participate in ASPiRE. Currently, exceptions can be made for the living requirement for students who have lived in-residence for at least one year and have been selected to serve as a resident assistant in a different location for their second year. Other exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Yes. Communicate your plans with the staff, and we will work with you to make a plan that works so you can explore the world and continue to be a part of the ASPiRE program.

Students in ASPiRE take nine credits over the two years in the program. This includes the required 3-credit UNIV 200 course. During the first semester in the program, students take a 3-credit introductory course. In each subsequent semester, they take a 1-credit class. Students in the program receive early registration that allows them to create a schedule that is able to accommodate both their major and program requirements. All ASPiRE classes are offered on multiple days/times.

Cocurriculars are opportunities and activities that take place outside of the traditional curriculum or classroom setting. Students participating in ASPiRE have the opportunity to have engaged learning experiences that take place in both the classroom and the community.

ASPiRE takes the stress out of planning service for students by planning and facilitating all cocurricular activities. These activities are listed on an online calendar for students to sign up. Students can sign up for cocurriculars that fit their interest and schedule. Students who wish to remain on track in the program do an average of 25 cocurricular hours each semester they are in the program.

ASPiRE is dedicated to working with their identified community partners so it is important that students commit to completing the majority of their hours with pre-approved sites. During the second year of program participation, students have an opportunity to obtain some of their hours through independent service. These hours must be reviewed by a staff member and verified to count toward cocurricular completion.

When there is a need for help in the evening, cocurriculars are offered during that time, but most need is during business hours (Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.). The program does work to provide weekend options for service to accommodate rigorous academic schedules. Weekend options are typically two times per month for a longer duration than typical cocurricular activities.