Underground Scholars Intake Form

Happy Week 7!

We hope you had a wonderful Veterans Day and were able to take some time to relax and recharge from midterms. 

As we move into the second half of the quarter, we want to remind you to take care of yourself and stay connected! Remember, PLUGS is here to support and guide you throughout your academic journeys. Whether you need help with resumes, job applications, graduate school prep, or just someone to talk to, we've got you covered. 

We also have an exciting opportunity coming up! The Formerly Incarcerated Student Advisory Board's (FISAB) role is designed to support academic and personal growth initiatives. Members will help raise awareness of justice system issues through programs and events, build community with wellness-focused activities, and provide guidance to USP from the perspective of formerly incarcerated students. If you're interested in applying to FISAB, the application is still open, and the deadline has been extended to November 30, 2025. This is a great opportunity to build connections and engage with the USP community. 

Don't forget that next week, on November 18, we'll be participating in the Spreadsgiving Competition with Project Rebound and Rising Scholars! 
Please RSVP to secure your spot. If you'd like to be part of the cooking team, answer the last question on the RSVP form. Take this opportunity to connect with other campus communities, share your gratitude, and enjoy a delicious, free meal together!

Lastly, share your Christmas spirit with Underground Scholars members and join us for our Winter Wonderland Celebration. Let’s say goodbye to the year and celebrate everyone’s accomplishments together. Lunch will be provided. Secure your spot by RSVPing today. 

In the community,
The Underground Scholars Team

Are you passionate about advocating and raising awareness for formerly incarcerated students? Do you want to help shape programming for the Underground Scholars program?

Apply now to join the Formerly Incarcerated Student Advisory Board!
Scan the QR code to access the application page and become part of a team dedicated to creating change. The deadline to apply has been extended to November 30, 2025. A stipend of $1,200 will be awarded through financial aid upon completion.

The Underground Scholars Program is collaborating with Project Rebound and Rising Scholars on an exciting spreading competition! Make sure to RSVP and join our team if you’d like to be one of our talented spreading chefs!

As the year and the quarter come to an end, we are excited to invite you to our Underground Scholars Winter Wonderland Celebration! Join us as we come together to celebrate resilience and accomplishments.

Take a well-deserved break after finals and enjoy a cozy and welcoming space with good company and delicious food. Lunch will be provided, so come hungry and ready to connect with fellow Underground Scholars members and staff.

This year, the Underground Scholar Program is offering three financial aid opportunities for eligible students: Student Success Stipend, Professional Development Fund, and Emergency Aid.

The Peer Leaders for Underground Scholars (PLUGS) Mentorship Program is led by formerly incarcerated and system-impacted students who understand the real challenges of navigating higher education. We know every journey is unique, and no one should have to walk it alone. Our PLUGS mentors are committed to empowering each Underground Scholar to reach their academic, professional, and personal goals.

With both lived experience and practical knowledge, our mentors provide support tailored to your needs. Whether it’s transitioning into UCI, accessing tutoring and academic services, connecting with campus resources, navigating the Department of Rehabilitation applications, or preparing for graduate school and future careers, we’re here to help you rise and thrive!