by Cassandra L. Hernandez, College of Alameda student

Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS) is one of the many services that College of Alameda has to offer. In fact, EOPS is a very academic institution in California. Originally part of the infamous Civil Rights Movement, it was signed in Senate Bill 84 and has helped millions of California residents get the education they deserve despite the disadvantages they face.

Here at College of Alameda, EOPS oversees the many other programs specifically designed to help specific students: CARE, CalWORKs, SALAAM, and NextUP! You can join EOPS and receive their services while also being in the other smaller student support systems. In order to apply for any of these services, you must first check your eligibility and see which program can best support your needs!

You go to CoA’s website and search for EOPS to start filling out their Common Application. You will be asked for information such as your Student ID number, what your degree plan is, and citizenship. The form will ask you more specific questions the further you progress in order to determine your eligibility for other programs. Once you sign the “Mutual Responsibility Contract” and submit your form, you MUST attend orientation if you are accepted into EOPS. They have both online and in-person meetings where you discuss what services they provide, grants, language services, and what you must maintain in order to stay in the program.

EOPS has a variety of services they are willing to provide for anyone who struggles. They have a language-help service for non-native English speakers. They provide mentorship by helping you enroll in the classes you need to graduate with the degree you want, as well as priority registration to get ahead of waitlists and schedule complications. Finally—what they are most well known for—financial aid! EOPS offers a variety of grants, assistance with transportation, providing food, and child care. They even offer waivers for UC/CSU applications, class registration fees, and free field trips to CSUs and UCs.

EOPS—as well as all other student support systems—are located in the A Building. Their office hours are 8:30 to 4:30, Monday through Friday during Fall and Spring semesters. To contact the front desk, you can call (510) 748-2219.