New Partnerships that Focus on Higher Education and Employment for Arriving Populations

The New American Academic Network (NAAN) is a new partnership among the University of Utah International Center, University Neighborhood Partners, Department of Workforce Services, Refugees Services Office, and the resettlement organizations of Utah. The goals of NAAN are to connect immigrants and former refugees with higher education, creating opportunities for them to return to school and/or employment. Many newcomers settle in Utah with academic and professional training from their native country; however, due to the circumstances that preceded resettlement, many individuals arrive without the proper credentials to enter higher education or a professional level of employment. The goals of the partnership are to identify and address “gaps” in participants’ employment skills and education and to help them get additional education and experiences that will allow them to re-enter their professions.

NAAN seeks to advance the intellectual development and academic success of its participants by providing academic resources, connection to departments of higher education, mentor relationships, assessment, sustainability, and information about academic and non-academic services.

The NAAN partnership began in the fall of 2009 with 12 individuals whose interests and professional backgrounds were assessed for education and future career opportunities. By summer 2010, 65 individuals participated with NAAN. Several are completing internships under the supervision of faculty and staff, while others are connected to professional mentors. Numerous University departments, including the College of Social Work, Middle East Center, College of Humanities, and College of Engineering have joined the partnership.

Naser Aboud is an example of how the NAAN partnership is a success. Naser was matched with a mentor, Dr. Mohamed E. Salama with the Department of Medicine, School of Pathology. Dr. Salama discusses Naser’s interests with him and assists him with building relationships in the field. Naser has an M.S.Ch.B. in internal medicine and surgery from Baghdad. During his academic years, he participated in fields of research in disciplines such as molecular biology, psychiatry, and community medicine. He also has experience in translating academic books from Arabic to English, and vice versa. Naser is eager to reconnect to his profession. Dr. Salama shared that within one to two years, Naser will be ready for entrance into the medical system.

Naser states, “My participation in NAAN provides me access into the United States health system while broadening my skills in interpersonal interaction. I am learning new techniques, [utilizing] new information, and enhancing my understanding of the domestic medical protocols and policies.” With regards to his mentor, Naser shares that “Dr. Salama is very supportive and his rich experience and valuable advice is helping me make the right decisions with regard to my medical ambitions.” Naser is grateful for this opportunity and is really thankful to all individuals involved in this endeavor – to integrate international graduates.” The NAAN partnership has received the attention of longtime University supporters and alumni. Ted, Richard, and Sue Jacobsen met with NAAN participants and have taken a special interest in connecting participants with engineering backgrounds to local mentors in their field.

While less than one year old, the NAAN partnership has experienced strong success in creating a sustainable system for working with new arriving immigrant and international populations that creates pathways to enter into higher education and gain professional employment.