Help vulnerable Argentine students finish college

Off to an Outstanding Start!

We kicked off the academic year with great enthusiasm, warmly welcoming 22 new scholarship holders to the 2023 Integrar Scholarship program. They were chosen from a competitive pool of 200 applicants, and let me tell you, these students are an extraordinary group!

During an engaging gathering marked by curiosity and excitement, the students got to meet and connect with each other, setting the foundation for a strong support network throughout their journey. We dived into the nitty-gritty of the scholarship program and the criteria for the annual renewal and introduced the academic tools and support they'll have at their fingertips throughout their journey. We even tackled the lingo of the university world and explained the different study modes and evaluation methods that are more common, so they're not caught off guard.

But we didn't stop there! We equipped them with a study and organization guide, packed with tips, practical advice, and a treasure trove of useful study apps. It was more than a meeting—it was a workshop! and the energy and enthusiasm in that room were palpable and contagious. 

The Impact of the Crisis: A Resounding Effect

Now, let's address the elephant in the room—the Argentinian crisis. We can't ignore it, as it's hitting hard, especially when it comes to the job market. Formal employment opportunities are shrinking, and rising inflation is a threat that looms over salaries. Unfortunately, those who bear the brunt of these challenges are often the most vulnerable, including many of our student’s parents working in the informal sector.

Despite these tough circumstances, we have some positive news to share. Currently, almost all our graduates have secured formal employment. However, more than half of them express a desire to change jobs because their salaries are low.  Additionally, graduates from the past three years are encountering greater difficulties in finding professional jobs related to their fields of study.

What Are We Doing About It? Taking Action!

We know that developing the complementary skills demanded by today's job market requires a comprehensive process and that it´s never too early to be strategic about one´s employability. 

That is the reason why we provide applicants with a comprehensive vocational guide packed with practical information, valuable resources, and thought-provoking activities. The importance of considering career prospects when choosing a field of study is strongly emphasized as it will have long-term implications on their professional and personal lives. And we also invite them to broaden their horizons to consider strategically important careers beyond the obvious options. 

As they progress in their studies, we offer the students a variety of workshops to empower them through information, guidance, and training. In June, we hosted a workshop on teamwork, an invaluable skill for university life and the professional world. Real-life examples, interactive activities, and simulations helped students identify their strengths and areas for improvement.

For the second half of the year, we have two additional workshops planned. One will delve into the art of assertive communication, while the other will concentrate on employability, specifically honing professional profiles.

Furthermore, we continuously strengthen and expand our network with HR consulting firms. We understand the importance of forming strong relationships with companies and professionals in the field to help us to anticipate the needs of an increasingly challenging job market and enhance the visibility of our graduates. We work closely with these firms to identify potential employment opportunities, ensuring our students are well-prepared to enter the job market with confidence.

The journey toward a successful professional career isn't a solo endeavor. We're here, standing by our recipients every step of the way. Together, we're unstoppable!