University of Arizona College of Education Director of Graduate Studies, Department of Disability and Psychoeducational Studies, Vanessa M. Perry was selected to present at workshop at the 15th Annual Alliance of Hispanic Serving Institution Educators Conference in March. Dr. Perry's presentation is called, "Graduate Admissions Toolkit: Como Representarnos en Posgrado." She developed this graduate admissions toolkit as part of her University of Arizona Hispanic Serving Institution - HSI Initiatives project.
Dr. Perry's abstract:
Historically, Latinxs have had the lowest level of college educational attainment across all racial groups. Each year, the United States continues to grow in the number of individuals seeking bachelor’s and graduate degrees. Graduate degrees create financial opportunities later in life, even more opportunities than those available to adults with bachelor’s degrees. We have an opportunity to ensure Latinxs are not left behind in graduate education achievement. Faculty often serve on graduate admissions committees with little training on equity-minded admissions practices. Latinx applicants may find themselves disadvantaged in the admissions process due to lack of opportunity, experience, or mentorship. Examining our outreach and recruitment practices in graduate programs is vital in considering how we can increase the number of Latinx students earning graduate degrees. Presenters share a toolkit of concrete, inclusive admissions best practices based on their experience and research.