THE HISPA ROLE MODEL PROGRAM
The HISPA Role Model Program enables Hispanic professionals to step into classrooms as positive examples for our youth.
During each visit, two HISPA Role Models share their cultural, educational, and professional experiences that allowed them to achieve their dreams—and show students that they can do the same.
Visits are tailored to school and student needs, ranging from small group discussions to large auditorium presentations, but all emphasize the importance of higher education and introduce potential future careers.
WHY MIDDLE SCHOOLS? WHY ROLE MODELS?
Research indicates that intervention is necessary at an early age. According to the Juvenile Assessment Center, the dropout process begins early: many students have “mentally dropped out of school much earlier than when they finally stop going to class.” Students tend to exhibit warning signs one to three years before dropping out, and most drop out early in high school.
Research also shows strong correlation between having a role model and pursuing education. By uniting middle-schoolers with successful, relatable role models, HISPA eradicates one reason why Latinos do not pursue higher education: a lack of role models.
Latino students need role models to help them see their educational opportunities and how to navigate the college system. For many of these students, this knowledge may not be available from other sources.
Not all children have to ask themselves the question, “Can I really be a teacher, doctor, astronaut, or politician?”
Unfortunately, many Hispanic youth have never seen role models that look like them in such professions. For this reason, it is important to provide such role models to students.
OUR RESEARCH SHOWS
70%
of students reported that their belief that they could attend college increased; in fact, students’ belief that they could attend college increased after each HISPA Role Model Program visit.
80%
of students strongly agreed that attending college would be fun—a 7% increase.
94%
of students reported that they want to earn at least a bachelor’s degree.
40%
wanted to earn an advanced degree.
ROLE MODELS
SAY
“Students were fantastic, several students approached me afterwards to express their personal appreciation. As always, the students inspire me as well.” “It was an awesome experience coming back to my hometown and speaking with middle school children who are living and growing up in the same school system and neighborhoods that I grew up in. Absolutely exhilarating!”
STUDENTS
SAY
“I learned that I can determine my future despite what holds me back. If I set my mind to it, I can create my destiny. I would like to thank you for being such an inspiration.”
“You inspired me to go to college and to do better in school.”
