INSPIRE is short for Inclusive Network Supporting Pacific Islander Retention in Education. It is here to support first generation, underrepresented, students and centers on the Pacific Islander student experience. We know the journey can be challenging, and INSPIRE is here to help you succeed!
What we offer:
Resources: Access culturally affirmative academic support, career-related workshops, financial aid guidance, and helpful tools to make your transition to college life easier.
Networking: Connect with other students and professionals who have been in your shoes, and grow your support system on campus!
Leadership Skills: Learn your communication style, take on leadership roles, and prepare for future career opportunities.
Community: Join a family of students and staff who share your experiences and cultural background. You're not alone in this journey!
Support: We understand that sometimes students opt for non-traditional 5-10 year plans and we get it! Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, from your first day of Orientation to Graduation Day!
As a year-long program, INSPIRE is designed to uplift first-generation students, helping students succeed at Portland State and beyond. We're excited to be a part of your journey! Those in our year-long program are expected to participate in MRS and INSPIRE events. There is a one week long program in September before the fall term begins that students are expected to join in. Those within our program are expected to engage with peers, and mentors, as well as meet once a month with their program coordinator.
Why Join the INSPIRE Program?
How we help you succeed:
Academic Support
Get access to tutoring, study resources, and academic advice to help you stay on top of your classes when you need it, whenever you need it.
Tuition Remission
Receive tuition assistance as a program scholar or mentor to assist with college-related tuition charges.
Financial Guidance
Build a professional portfolio for academic scholarships, manage financial aid, and plan your budget through our Connect course so you can focus on your education.
Build Connections
Meet mentors, fellow students, and professionals who can offer guidance and open doors to opportunities.
Leadership Development
Gain leadership and teamwork skills through workshops and activities that prepare you for the future.
Cultural Community
Join a community that understands your background and is dedicated to supporting your unique journey.
Personalized Support
Receive one-on-one mentoring, advice, and encouragement from mentors and advisors committed to helping you thrive.
ELIGIBILITY:
Be admitted to PSU
Demonstrate financial need (FAFSA/ORSAA Pell Eligibility)
Enrolled in a minimum of 12 credits per term
Must be a first-generation college student*
Meet the minimum 2.5 GPA requirement (Each Term/Overall Cumulative)
*A first-generation college student implies that neither parents of the student completed a four-year Bachelor's Degree in college.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
To successfully apply, please submit all of the following together:
- A completed application
- A copy of your letter of admission to Portland State University
- A copy of an unofficial high school transcript
- A copy of your financial aid/ORSAA award (if available) OR a statement of your financial need with a budget of income and expenses
Once your application is complete, please submit, email or Mail your completed application to:
API Student Services
Diversity and Multicultural Student Services
Smith Memorial Student Union, Suite 425
Mail Code: DMSS
Portland State University
PO Box 751
Portland, OR 97207-0751
INSPIRE MENTORS:
INSPIRE Mentors are an additional resource in our program and serve as current successful PSU students who function as role models to new incoming freshmen and student transfers. Trained mentors serve to inspire, motivate, and empower new mentees by providing them with academic or personal services available so that they succeed. At the end of each semester, mentors become more effective leaders and gain the qualities expected of supportive community members.