Program Overview

Introduction to the Bobcat Underground Scholars Program

The Bobcat Underground Scholars (BUS) program is housed within the Calvin E. Bright Success Center at the University of California, Merced. The program's primary mission is to provide comprehensive support, services, and leadership opportunities specifically tailored for formerly incarcerated and system-impacted scholars. This includes individuals who have been indirectly affected by the incarceration of a loved one.

Mission of the Calvin E. Bright Success Center

The Calvin E. Bright Success Center is dedicated to providing learning support, transition programs, and individualized interventions that empower UC Merced students to achieve success in their academic and personal development. The center offers opportunities and co-curricular experiences designed to enhance students' knowledge of university resources, promote academic and personal growth, and foster advocacy and access. The approach utilized by the center is culturally relevant and holistic, focusing on the developmental needs of students. The high retention and graduation rates of students participating in the center's programs and services demonstrate its effectiveness.

Purpose of the Bobcat Underground Scholars Program

The purpose of the Bobcat Underground Scholars program is to offer a supportive environment, services, and leadership opportunities for students who have been formerly incarcerated or system-impacted. This support extends to those who have been indirectly impacted by the incarceration of a family member or loved one.

Requirements for the Bobcat Underground Scholars Program

To be eligible for the Bobcat Underground Scholars program, applicants must:

• Be a current UC Merced student or have submitted a Statement of Intent to Register (SIR).
• Identify with one of the following categories:
  1. Formerly incarcerated.
  2. System-impacted, which includes being detained (but not arrested), deported, arrested (but not convicted), or having a loved one who has experienced incarceration.

Services and Benefits of the Bobcat Underground Scholars Program

The program offers a range of services and benefits to support the academic and personal success of its scholars, including:

1. One-on-one peer mentorship.
2. Guaranteed on-campus housing.
3. Workshops tailored to the needs of system-impacted students.
4. Student Success Funds to support academic and personal endeavors.
5. Textbook assistance to help alleviate financial burdens.
6. Technology Incentive Program to ensure access to necessary technology.
7. Scholarship opportunities to support academic pursuits.
8. Referrals to the Financial Aid office, Academic Advising, and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) to provide holistic support.

Pillars of the Bobcat Underground Scholars Program

The program is built on several key pillars, including:

• Recruitment: The program partners with the Undergraduate Admissions Division to provide individualized assistance to eligible scholars applying to UC Merced. This includes support from a dedicated Transfer Admissions Liaison.
• Incarcerated Scholars Correspondence Project: This project aims to provide outreach, academic advising, and transcript analysis to currently incarcerated students. Incarcerated scholars can contact the program for support and guidance.

Contact Information for Incarcerated Scholars

Incarcerated scholars interested in the Incarcerated Scholars Correspondence Project can write to: Bobcat Underground Scholars, University of California, Merced, Kolligian Library, 222J, 5200 N. Lake Rd., Merced, CA 95343.

The Bobcat Underground Scholars program at the University of California, Merced, is a unique and supportive initiative designed to empower formerly incarcerated and system-impacted students to achieve academic success and personal growth. Through its comprehensive services, leadership opportunities, and commitment to creating an inclusive environment, the program plays a vital role in fostering a community of scholars who are dedicated to making a positive impact.