MOSAIC

The MOSAIC (Mentoring, Opportunities, & Support for Achievement, Identity & Community) Initiative provides holistic support and development for first-year and transfer students from underrepresented communities. It serves as a nexus for a variety of resources and opportunities, fostering personal and professional growth, collaboration, and community while celebrating each participant’s unique contributions and perspectives.

MOSAIC, offered by the Office of Academic, Access, and Leadership Development (AALD), enriches the undergraduate experience by providing student scholars with access and engagement opportunities through a one-year cohort model. This program introduces students to high-impact practices, mentorship, and both academic and leadership development. It cultivates a sense of belonging and accomplishment, empowering students to thrive and succeed at Mizzou and beyond.

Guiding Pillars

  • Academic Support Services: offers various resources to help students excel academically, including tutoring, study groups, academic advising, and workshops on study skills and time management.
  • Identity Exploration: Understanding one’s identity is crucial in navigating college life. Through workshops, discussions, and events, MOSAIC encourages students to explore their interests, values, and goals in a supportive and inclusive environment.
  • Career Exploration & Readiness: MOSAIC offers students the chance to connect with campus departments and professionals from the Columbia community. Through networking events, career preparation workshops, and support from Student Success coaches, students will be equipped to pursue their academic and professional goals with confidence.
  • Community Building: A sense of community and belonging is cultivated through social events, cultural celebrations, and networking opportunities where students can connect with peers, faculty, staff, and alumni.

Participants will explore the program’s pillars through:

  • Course curriculum EDLPA 3100 (SP), can earn up to 3 credit hours
    • Classes will be held on Tuesday and Thursday, 1 pm to 1:50 pm, in the Gaines/Oldham Black Culture Center (GOBCC) for the Spring semester.
  • Cohorts of 20-25
  • Peer mentorship
  • 1:1 student success coaching
  • Participation in academic access and leadership opportunities
  • Exposure to campus resources and activities
  • Networking events with faculty/staff, community leaders, and more.

Course Component Information

The program adopts a holistic approach to student success by integrating course curriculum, experiential learning, individual coaching, and peer mentorship. This initiative aims to create growth and development opportunities that facilitate a successful transition to Mizzou, and to improve the retention and persistence of undergraduate students as they pursue their academic, professional, and personal goals.

Course Objectives
  • Develop Academic Skills: Students will acquire essential academic skills such as time management, organization, effective study habits, and critical thinking to enhance their academic performance and success.
  • Explore Identity: Through self-reflection and exploration, students will gain a deeper understanding of their full identities, values, and aspirations, fostering a sense of self-awareness and empowerment.
  • Career Readiness: Students will engage in activities and discussions aimed at preparing them for future career opportunities, including resume building, interview skills, networking, and accessing professional development resources.
  • Cultivate Personal Growth: The course curriculum will provide opportunities for personal growth and development, encouraging students to set goals, overcome challenges, and cultivate resilience in their academic and personal lives.
Course Delivery
  • Interactive Lectures: Engaging lectures will provide foundational knowledge and insights into academic success, identity exploration, and career development.
  • Group Work & Discussions: Small group work & discussions will facilitate peer learning, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas on course topics.
  • Workshops: Practical workshops will offer hands-on learning experiences and skill-building exercises to reinforce course concepts.
  • Guest Speakers: Invited guest speakers, including faculty, staff, alumni, and industry professionals, will share their expertise and experiences to enrich students’ learning and provide real-world perspectives.

To inquire about eligibility or the program in general, contact Program Instructor, Velma Buckner: bucknerv@umsystem.edu