The Samaritan Leadership Program

The Samaritan Leadership Program is for undocumented, academically prepared, first-time FPU freshman or transfer students who have completed their high school education in California. Its purpose is to provide a fruitful higher education experience and equip students to be servant leaders and scholars through opportunities for leadership development, mentoring, and community service. 

Program Requirements

  • Must be an undocumented student
  • Must have attended and graduated from a high school in California
  • Must have filed and submitted the California Dream Act Application

Program Expectations (if selected)

All Samaritan students must

  • Enroll as a full-time student at FPU (equivalent to a minimum of 12 units per semester).
  • Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0
    • Mid-semester reporting (grade checks) required
  • Attend regularly scheduled meetings as set by program coordinator(s)
  • Participate in a(n) activity/program/service event that benefits the community (Fresno Pacific community and/or the Central Valley) each semester
  • Be committed to fulfilling program responsibilities as follows as determined by academic standing:
    • Freshmen/ First-year students:
      • Connect with a third- or fourth-year Samaritan student who will serve as a peer mentor
      • Meet regularly with program coordinator(s) to develop and progress toward a four-year academic success plan
    • Second-year students:
      • Seek out a mentor with whom you can connect regarding your area of study, career aspirations, etc.
    • Third- and Fourth-year students:
      • Engage FPU’s campus as a leader and a scholar by securing a service position in a campus department of interest/study
      • Serve as a peer mentor for first-year Samaritan students
  • Consent to an annual review with program coordinator(s) to review achievements

Application Process

  1. Apply and be admitted to Fresno Pacific University by the established deadlines
  2. Have a completed Dream Act application on file with the university
  3. Submit a completed Samaritan Leadership Program application
  4. Submit a Personal Statement
    1. Your personal statement should:
      1. Help the committee understand who you are (share your migration journey, your gifts and talents, your career goals)
      2. Explain your motivation for pursuing your college education at Fresno Pacific University
      3. Detail how your qualities and experiences will help you be academically successful
      4. Be 2-3 pages in length (12 pt. font, double-spaced)
  5. Submit one letter of recommendation
    1. Your letter should be written by someone (a mentor, teacher, etc.) who can attest to your character, academic qualities, and potential for leadership.

Application Deadlines 

  • Priority deadline for Spring: December 1
  • Priority deadline for Fall: March 2

After deadlines, applications will be accepted on a rolling basis as space is available.