Our Coaching Model
Blavin Scholar coaches serve as a primary point of contact for U-M students who have experienced foster care. They are Blavin program staff members who complete special training through The Fostering Success Coaching Institute.
The Fostering Success Coaching Model helps us support Blavin scholars throughout their college experience and transition to postgraduate endeavors. We strongly believe in maintaining a present and future focus.
Here’s what you can expect:
- A holistic approach that promotes skill development in seven life domains (adapted from Casey Family Programs).
- Regular coaching interactions (at least once monthly) to receive knowledge and build skills.
- The chance to share experiences and discuss questions, concerns, and needs with your coach.
- An on-campus support network to receive additional guidance and support.
- Development of academic, professional, and life skills to support current and future success.
How We Help
The Blavin scholarship provides Blavin scholars with financial support toward the cost of attendance and is complemented by scholars’ participation in the Blavin Scholars program, which provides access to a supportive network and resources that build academic, professional, and life skills.
The Blavin Scholars program provides Blavin scholars with access to:
- The Blavin scholarship – up to $5,000 per year toward the cost of attendance
- Guidance from admission through graduation
- One-on-one support from a Blavin Scholar campus coach
- Access to campus departments and resources through Blavin liaisons
- Educational programming for academics, professional, and life skills
- Community building and social events
- Options for year-round housing accommodations including holidays and breaks
- 24/7 support through the on-call Blavin program staff
- A Blavin mentor and/or U-M faculty or staff member
“Before I came to Michigan I was alone, I was scared, I was on the journey by myself. Campus coaching is support, it’s being there, it’s knowing that you have that one person you can go to.” — Blavin Scholar