Peer mentors and incoming students at BI New Student Orientation
What is the BI?
The UW Brotherhood Initiative is a cohort-based program and research project that provides opportunities for academic growth, personal exploration, and holistic support to all undergraduates, with a focus on underrepresented men of color at UW. We provide students with networks and resources that promote educational success, emphasizing academic, civic, and leadership opportunities such as undergraduate research, professional networking, community-engaged learning, study abroad, and much more. Through these multiple forms of engagement, students gain the skills they need to thrive in college and wherever their journey takes them after graduation. There are three main student-centered components of the BI:
BI Curriculum
BI Scholars take two year-long, two-credit academic seminars with their cohort in their first and second years. These seminars integrate academic skill-building, utilization of university resources, and major & career exploration with in-depth engagement in topics including identity, values, and belonging.
Individualized Student Support
BI Scholars meet individually with BI staff each quarter to discuss academic and non-academic successes and challenges. These check-ins serve as a critical complement to the EOP and departmental advising that students receive, and provide the opportunity for students to seek out personalized resources and referrals.
Educational and Social Activities
A wide variety of other activities and events are offered for BI Scholars, including a first-year student retreat, career and networking events, quarterly advising, study halls, intramural sports, peer mentoring, an end-of-year celebration, and more. Learn more about the BI student experience here.