Southeast Asian Student Success Initiative recruiting first cohort of Bulldog Sc…

Bulldog Scholars is a new program at Fresno State, committed to supporting Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander and Southeast Asian students during their freshman year at the university.

The program, housed within the university’s Southeast Asian Student Success Initiative, will equip students with resources, mentorship and personalized support to help them successfully navigate university life and achieve their goals. 

“The program offers workshops focused on effective study strategies, time management and career readiness, equipping students with essential skills for success in college and beyond,“ said Shimel Her Saychou, director of the Southeast Asian Student Success Initiative. 

Leadership development is another key component of Bulldog Scholars. Through student leadership conferences, workshops, and special programming and events, students are encouraged to cultivate leadership skills that help them grow both personally and as leaders in their communities. 

The program also emphasizes cultural and community engagement, allowing students to build a support network of peers, staff, faculty and alumni, through events, workshops and other networking opportunities. 

“Southeast Asian students at Fresno State have historically faced lower retention and graduation rates compared to their peers, underscoring the need for targeted support systems,” said Her Saychou. “Initiatives designed specifically for Southeast Asian students play a vital role in connecting them with essential resources such as academic advising, tutoring, financial aid and mental health services.”

“I want to highlight the significant potential of the Bulldog Scholars program to bring about positive change for our students at Fresno State. The ripple effect can significantly elevate educational attainment levels within the Southeast Asian community.”

Generally, the program prioritizes admitting first-year students who participated in Bulldog Bound, a guaranteed admissions program for high school students in the Central Valley, but is open to those who did not.

Students interested in participating in Bulldog Scholars should contact the Southeast Asian Student Success Initiative for specific details on eligibility and the application process, at 559.278.7684 or seastudentsuccess@mail.fresnostate.edu.