The COMPASS (Commitment to the Objective of Mentoring, Perseverance, Achievement, Sustainability, and Success) program at West Chester University supports Black male students and helps them succeed by pairing them with mentors, writes Sarah Bloomquist for 6ABC.

The program aims to defy the national trend of racial equity gaps for African American men in college.

Tyler Rhoden, a third-year undergraduate student, admits that he was struggling to adjust during his first few months at WCU.

He was paired with Fred Fleming, a third-year graduate student, who now acts as his academic mentor. They meet at least once a week to review his grades, test scores, and class selections. They can also talk about anything on Rhoden’s mind.

Students who are participating in the COMPASS program also take part in a weekly study hall. Additionally, they have access to tutoring every week.

The program is still in its trial phase, but Rhoden is already on board for next year.

“I just want to keep that same energy around me,” he said.

Read more about the COMPASS program at West Chester University at 6ABC here.