Mayra Vazquez, AHS Class of 2015, reached out to us today to tell us about the Rural Area Student Initiative (R.A.S.I.) at the University of Illinois. Vazquez is currently an academic advisor at the U of I.
Vazquez wanted AHS students who want to go the U of I, and AHS alumni who currently attend the U of I to know that RASI offers several ways of supporting them.
According to the RASI website, "The culture shock rural college students experience when they first step onto campus is seldom talked about, leaving many to struggle silently as a result. RASI seeks to create a "home away from home" at UIUC-- a hub for rural students to support one another academically, professionally, and socially. Whether it be through class advice, applying for internships, or even just venting to a fellow student, RASI members will always have access to a built-in support system. "
Additionally, every RASI member has the option to become a Liaison to their rural high school. As past students, they know better than anyone how best to serve the students at their high school. Liaisons utilize this pre-established connection by reaching out to their high school administrators and connecting the students at their high school with RASI's carefully curated college access materials.
Additionally, they remain available to every student for questions about their college experience and general assistance concerning the college application process.
Vazquez also advises current students with undecided majors.
If you have any questions, feel free to email Mayra Vazquez at mjvazqu2@illinois.edu .
And thank you, Mayra, for helping us help AHS students!
