E.Q.U.I.P.
Level up your first year.
The EQUIP Program helps first-year students cultivate self-awareness, community, and resilience through AACC signature events and programs; campus approved events; wellness-centered events; and proactive resource engagement. By centering the core principles of Empower, Question, Understand, Initiate, and Partner, this year-long program bridges the gap between identifying a need and taking action. Ultimately, participants are supported by the African American Cultural Center (AACC) as they navigate their first year at NC State.
Empower Yourself
Own your experience to create what you want out of college.
Question Everything.
Practice curiosity and critical thinking for lifelong growth.
Understand Yourself
Build emotional intelligence and self-reflection habits.
Initiate Action
Take steps toward getting what you need to succeed.
Partner with Others
Build a network of care, connection, and accountability.
Build the NC State experience you actually want—inside and outside the classroom. The African American Cultural Center (AACC) invites first-year students to join a year-long initiative designed to help you cultivate self-awareness, community, and resilience.
What You Experience Joining the EQUIP cohort connects you to a built-in support network designed to help you navigate campus life and find your pack:
- 1-on-1 Monthly Mentorship: Regular check-ins with dedicated AACC staff to set personal goals and navigate campus.
- Embedded Counseling: Dedicated guidance and mental health support from an embedded AACC counselor.
- Interactive Learning Labs: Skill-building workshops focused on resilience, self-awareness, and navigating campus resources.
- Personalized Event Schedule: A custom lineup of AACC signature events, wellness activities, and EQUIP cohort programming tailored to your interests.
- Cohort Community: A close-knit group of first-year peers to share experiences and build lifelong relationships.
- Incentives & Recognition: Earn surprise rewards throughout the year and an official award at our end-of-year ceremony.
Packways High Impact Experience (HIE) EQUIP is officially Packways Recognized as a High Impact Experience. Employers actively seek HIEs on resumes because they demonstrate immersive learning, continuous mentorship, real-world application, and holistic personal development. Participating in EQUIP puts you directly on the path to earn your HIE Packways Certificate.
Get Involved
- Interest Meetings & Orientation: Join an upcoming session to meet the team and learn more about the cohort experience.
- Ready to Apply? Space is limited—submit your EQUIP Cohort Application Form early.
- Have Questions? Contact Andaiye Qaasim, Assistant Director of the AACC, at [email protected].
Orientation
Make an appointment with your embedded counselor.
