Program Structure
Launched in 2009 to support second-year students, the MLK Academy has expanded into a four-tier program offering various services to enhance learning and experiences that support progression toward graduation. Each tier is designed to address key developmental milestones associated with each academic year. In addition to the professional staff, all students are coached by upper-level students, an academy leader who helps guide them through each academic year.
Through regularly scheduled meetings with professional staff and academy leaders, students are introduced to an environment that promotes strong academic achievement, leadership opportunities, and encouragement to participate in events that promote community on and off campus.
Tier Components
First Tier
WMU students who are recipients of the MLK G.O.L.D. Scholarship are automatically enrolled into the MLK Academy. The scholarship is awarded to encourage the enrollment of first-year students at Western Michigan University who embrace the value of diversity and leadership.
The first tier provides students with individualized academic course review and peer leader support that enables them to adjust to college, build a strong academic foundation, and overcome the challenges of entering a new life phase.
Second Tier
The second tier is designed to enhance experiences beyond the classroom, academic preparedness, leadership and personal development opportunities, diversity exposure, assistance with career paths, and study abroad exploration.
Third Tier
The third tier encourages career exploration. Students engage in various activities to expose them to their chosen career paths. Such activities include exploring and participating in study abroad, internships, graduate school and job exploration, mock interviews, financial literacy, and resume enhancement.
Fourth Tier and Beyond
The fourth tier focuses on career and graduate school preparation. Students are engaged in various activities designed to prepare them for life after the baccalaureate. As part of graduation preparation, the students complete their graduation audit, obtain internships, and network through job fairs and professional organizations.
