Umoja-ASTEP is a learning community and transfer support program that focuses on the African American community college experience through the nurturing of knowledge, intellect, academic exploration, cultural, and spiritual identities, gifts, values and practices.

In fall of 2020 Skyline College became a member of California’s statewide Umoja community bringing together Umoja practices with the existing ASTEP Learning Community.

What you can expect when you join:

Umoja students will benefit from the following services and support networks:

  • Supportive network of culturally competent faculty, staff, and administrators to help you reach your goals
  • Transfer support and planning, including transfer pathways to the UCs, CSUs, and HBCUs
  • Statewide conferences and symposia sponsored by the Umoja Community Education Foundation (statewide Umoja organization)
  • Dedicated academic counselor and specialist
  • Field trips to museums, like the De Young and Museum of the African Diaspora
  • Campus visits to local universities
  • Student Leadership Program
  • Bi-Weekly porch talks and social time
  • Mental health, finance, and scholarship workshops

Program Expectations:

Members of the Umoja Community are expected to complete the following program requirements:

  • A semester long commitment to your coursework and academic success
  • Enroll in Umoja- ASTEP weekly seminar / speaker series
  • Participation in Umoja gatherings, field trips, celebrations, and/or BSU
  • Meet with the Umoja coordinator and the Umoja Counselor each semester
  • Complete a Student Education Plan (SEP)
  • Regularly attend all classes and complete course assignments
  • Meet with the Umoja network for support to balance school, family, and/or work life
  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the California College Promise Grant application