About
The Freshman Urban Program is an introduction to the neighborhoods within Chicago and Evanston. The program examines the issues that face these communities, the organizations that serve them and the means by which Northwestern students can effect change. FUP employs the theory of Asset-Based Community Development in teaching participants about issues as varied as housing, education, health care, politics, gentrification and community organizing.
FUP is a pre-New Student Week activity open to all incoming freshmen. During this five day program, participants will stay in a youth hostel in Chicago’s Loop area. From there they will be dispatched to volunteer at community centers, urban schools, homeless shelters and advocacy organizations throughout the city. Northwestern faculty and various community leaders will lead discussions on a variety of issues facing urban communities.
The program is student-run with support from the Center for Student Involvement. FUP will run from September 10-16, 2008 and is an excellent opportunity to meet 68 other incoming freshmen. It will also teach incoming freshmen how to become an involved member of the Northwestern service community. Space is limited and students will be selected on the basis of an application. If selected, freshmen will be contacted with further information about the week. All interested freshmen should apply as soon as possible.
The program will cost $215 and will include housing, food, transportation and a program t-shirt. Limited partial and full need-based scholarships are available. “The combination of speakers, service and discussion was so incredibly informative.” -FUP Participant