The Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) program at Rutgers-Newark is one of the oldest campus programs established by the state to provide access to higher education for underrepresented students. The Rutgers-Newark EOF program began in 1968, the same year that the legislation was created. The program is designed to support the educational and financial needs of students whose potential for college may not be reflected in their academic grades and SAT scores and whose economic background would make attending college very difficult without financial aid. Accordingly, the EOF program focuses on the provision of tuition assistance and academic support services, which emphasizes both intellectual and personal development. At Rutgers-Newark, EOF students receive professional counseling, academic advising, tutoring, and supplemental support courses to promote strong academic performance. Students admitted to the university through EOF are required to attend a summer program designed to prepare them for the rigor and diversity of academic life at Rutgers-Newark. The summer program offers specialized instruction in basic mathematics and communications skills, as well as undergraduate teaching assistants, EOF mentors, introduction to faculty instructors committed to the program, and a variety of enrichment activities. In addition, the EOF program assists students interested in graduate study, Honors College, congressional internships, health and medical careers, and any other career-related programs and opportunities. The EOF program at Rutgers reflects a wide range of student diversity in ethnicity, language, and culture. EOF students are actively engaged in student organizations and campus life. While the primary emphasis is on the development of intellectual skills and successful study habits, the program is also designed to help students increase confidence, develop social skills, and broaden their potential for growth. The EOF program at Rutgers-Newark is administered by the Academic Foundations Center. For further information, contact the Educational Opportunity Fund director at Rutgers-Newark (973/353-5604).
