RESEDENTIAL PROGRAM
Twice a year, the NOSW identifies and selects 14 low-income women from the south central Appalachian region and brings them to the Berea College campus for a three-week residential educational program. There is no cost to the participants. Additionally, monies for childcare and transportation are provided as needed.
Each weekday morning for three weeks, participants are in classes from eight until noon. Class instructors include faculty members from Berea College, the University of Kentucky, community professionals, and staff members.
The demanding program curriculum includes the following:
| Self-Esteem | Appalachian Literature | Job Search Skills | Computer Basics |
| Punctuation Review | Computer Lab | Basic Math | Women’s Health |
| Leadership from Within | Is Education in Your Future? | Serving on Boards of Community Organizations | Understanding Violence Against Women |
| Personality Styles | Creative Writing | Self-Defense | Art of Self Expression |
| Getting to Know Your Local Government | Understanding Your Interest Inventory | Public Speaking | Interviewing Skills & Resume Writing |
Each weekday afternoon participants have a community internship related to their specific career interests.
Weekends are devoted to cultural events and the arts with field trips to places like the Cincinnati Art Museum, Krohn Conservatory, and the Museum of Appalachia.
Weeknights can include social events sponsored by local women’s groups such as the American Association of University Women and the Berea Younger Women’s Club.
While on campus, each participant is offered a mammogram, a pap smear, other health screenings when appropriate, and a copy of the women’s health reference book, The New Ourselves Growing Older; Women Aging with Knowledge and Power, by Paula B. Doress-Worters and Diana Laskin Siegal. Participants are also given time with healthcare specialists to discuss personal health issues.
The women are also invited to embark on a "career makeover" during the session, which includes obtaining a business suit, new hairstyle, and lessons on applying makeup for the business world.