Most Frequently Asked Questions about BCP

1. What is BCP? The Bilingual Collegiate Program is an academic and cultural support program established in 1974 to serve the needs of Hispanics and other bilingual students on campus. 
2. What Services does BCP offer? We offer mentors, counseling, and advocacy, computer lab, volunteer opportunities, social activities, and study centers.
3. Do you offer help in choosing courses and majors? No, depending o the student’s needs we refer them to academic departments or to Pre-Major Advising Center.
4. How do I know if I have a mentor? Upon your request the mentor coordinator will notify you via mail of your mentor’s information and of meeting dates.
5. Can I be a mentor? You have to be a junior or senior in good academic standing and have knowledge of the campus and resources available.
6. Does BCP offer social events? Yes, in conjunction with the Latin American Cultural Center (LACC) and Anacaona Cultural Center we offer recreational and social activities.
7. How can I find out about these events? We send out a monthly electronic newsletter with event information, important deadlines, and advising tips.
8. Does BCP offer ESL classes? No. The ESL department at the University offers courses to interested students.
9. Does BCP offer bilingual classes? No. We support the academic mission of the University by tailoring services around the academic and cultural needs of our students.
10. Do you have to be bilingual to be part of the program? No, over the years we have admitted students interested in learning from other cultures.
11. How many students belong to BCP? We have 432 students, 60% Hispanic, 23% White, 6% Asian, 3% Black, and 8% Other.
12. How can I be part of the program? You have two options; by checking off BCP in the undergraduate admissions application, and/or by filling out an affiliation card, which you can get from our office or the Registrar’s Office.
13. What is the Phone-a-thon? BCP students call accepted incoming students to answer their questions about UMass and help them make a connection to the University.
14. What are the Latin American and Anacaona Cultural Centers? Offices established and staffed by students to celebrate their heritage and educate other about Latin American cultures.
15. How can I get a job in BCP or the cultural centers? By filling out an application, getting a recommendation from the current student staff, and interviewing with the supervisor (a BCP staff member).
16. What are the qualifications for employment? We look for students that have experience organizing events, have extensive knowledge of the University, BCP, and Hispanic/Latino heritage, and are responsible, accountable, and available to work in the evening and weekends.
17. Where is BCP located? We are located in 101 Wilder Hall, next to the University Club.
Tel (413) 545-1968, Fax (413) 545-3382, E-mail bcp@acad.umass.edu

 

 
 

© 2006 University of Massachusetts Amherst. Site Policies.
This site is maintained by the Bilingual Collegiate Program.

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