Changing the approach: promoting student affairs competencies in EOP professional development

Abstract

Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) professionals work to support low-income and first-generation college students prepare for, enroll in, and complete college. However, while other student affairs practitioners often take part in extensive formalized training, EOP professionals typically do not. This action research study sought to address this challenge through the implementation and evaluation of a four-part training program for new EOP professionals. Qualitative data was collected from multiple interviews and written reflections collected from four research participants who participated in the training program. Research participants included professions with fewer than three years of experience who joined the state association for EOP professionals. The results of this study are situated in the literature surrounding the training and onboarding of EOP professionals, ongoing training needs, and the impact on student outcomes. The study provides implications for practice for the state association as a training provider and for individual opportunity programs in training new staff.