PACE IS a college-readiness program designed to aid students by boosting educational opportunities, as well as boosting the likelihood of high enrollment rates for low-income families or first-generation students. PACE is a program done through SLCC.
“Salt Lake Community College is a two-year college that embraces different walks of life and different backgrounds and identities. Finding community in people that look like me was hard when I was in K-12, so when I finally got to SLCC, I was able to find myself and my community and learn to embrace my identity and truly love who I am,” Nnenna Eke-Ukoh, the PACE advisor at Granger High School, said.
PACE is an amazing opportunity for low-income students, like any other opportunity; there are requirements to be eligible for entering the program. “Keep in mind that PACE is a commitment, and I am here to help support you and empower you. PACE is like a family or little community,” Eke-Ukoh said. Other than committing to the program, whether it’s attending monthly workshops, socials, or study lounges, background stability, academics, and grade level also affect these standards. “To qualify for PACE, you must be a first-generation student and/or qualify for free or reduced lunch, must be an incoming ninth grader (exceptions for older students if there is space in that cohort), you must maintain a 2.0 GPA and participate in PACE events and workshops,” Eke-Ukoh said.
Some students around Granger High School already have a connection with this program, sharing their thoughts and opinions with those who have already been in the program for up to a year or more. “Joining PACE has included interactions with like-minded people and lots of fun workshops,” Oscar Campos Samayoa (10) said.
“I joined because I heard good things about it. PACE also helps with your career,” Shukri Ali (9) said.
“SLCC programs prepare students for the world outside of community college whether it is transferring to a 4-year university to complete a bachelor’s or getting into the workforce,” Eke-Ukoh said.
Recruitments only happen during a certain time of the year. Usually, this happens towards the beginning of freshman year, and it only has 60 spots. Positions are taken quickly, so not hesitating or learning more about the program before recruitments begin is always advised. SLCC and PACE are proven to be great resources for students in need of financial support. Regardless of class level status, the PACE office is open to any students who wish to consult about college readiness. “Don’t be afraid to try new things; try PACE out first before you decide no. This goes with everything else in your life, you won’t go far if you don’t put yourself in spaces you thought you could never be in. So, try things out. If you have further questions, I am in E-209,” said Eke-Ukoh. Don’t hesitate to drop by E-209 to ask questions, hang out, and learn more about PACE.
