ASPIRE

ASPIRE Program Overview
The ASPIRE Program is a student success program for master's level graduate students of SHSU. The program offers comprehensive support for scholars’ personal growth, professional development, and academic success. ASPIRE supports and encourages its scholars to pursue and finish graduate school, improve educational experiences, and prepare them for careers.

Mission Statement
Developing a community of scholars who demonstrate scholarly excellence, professionalism, and an aptitude for leadership to ensure a smooth transition from student to professional.

Vision Statement
Facilitating a smooth adjustment to the academic rigor of graduate education to promote and nurture a culture of excellence in research and learning.

• ASPIRE Components

  Community service

  Personal development

  Academic support sessions

  Community engagement

  Career planning through the development of a career portfolio

  Mentoring experiences to facilitate a smooth adjustment to the academic rigor of graduate education.

  Professional development workshops that include discussion and training for communication skills, leadership skills, public speaking skills, time management, and more.

• ASPIRE Application

  First Step: Complete Application

  Second Step: Submit Application to aspire@shsu.edu

  Third Step: Interview notification emailed from program staff

  Fourth Step: Interview

  Fifth Step: Acceptance notification emailed from program staff

  Application Opens – March
  Application Closes – May
  Interviews - June

• ASPIRE FAQs

  What are the eligibility requirements?
  Any masters-level graduate students are eligible to apply for the ASPIRE Program regardless of program track.

  Can I apply to ASPIRE as an online out-of-state student?
  The program is open to ALL masters-level graduate students at SHSU, including those with online student status.

  Does an application need to be submitted every year?
  No. Once admitted into the program, you are granted six funded semesters as a scholar with the completion of program requirements.

  What are the requirements as a scholar in the program?
  Scholars in the program must attend workshops and events to support their personal, professional, and academic development.

  What are the benefits of the program?
  Personal development, professional development, academic support, community, mentorship, and financial support. In addition to being awarded a scholarship stipend for six semesters, upon successful completion of all program requirements, students are awarded regalia for commencement (hood, cap, and gown).

  What impact has the program had on former students?
  The program plays a crucial role in the smooth transition from classroom to career for its participating students. Alumni of the ASPIRE program can be found in several states of the nation in pursuit of many different employment opportunities. This includes working for the government, working in education, working in healthcare, and more.