2025 SS&FYE Staff Training Overview

Summary

This presentation outlines the First Year Experience (FYE) at a university, focusing on support programs that aid students' transitions and success. It highlights initiatives like exploratory programs for undeclared majors, faculty involvement in student development, and community-focused projects. Key events such as the First Year Day of Service, workshops, and coaching are designed to improve student retention and success. The university also prioritizes first-generation student support, offering resources like the First Generation Student Success Center. The program fosters engagement, personal growth, and academic achievement, ensuring students' positive start at university.

Takeaways

• 😀 First-year experience programs are designed to help students transition academically and socially into university life, providing workshops and support from faculty and staff.
• 😀 The exploratory program encourages students who are undecided about their major to explore options without stigma, providing guidance and events to help them discover their interests.
• 😀 There is a focus on increasing retention rates through programs that engage students early on, making them feel supported and part of the community.
• 😀 First-generation students receive dedicated support through coaching, workshops, and celebratory events like National First-Generation Celebration Week.
• 😀 Signature events like the First-Year Day of Service and Student Success Summit aim to provide students with practical experience and motivation to succeed throughout their academic journey.
• 😀 Faculty and staff are essential to supporting student success by engaging with students, participating in events, and understanding the resources available to them.
• 😀 The exploratory program has been shown to help students declare majors earlier, which increases their retention rate by 22%.
• 😀 The university provides resources like peer leaders, social events, and specialized advising to support students in the exploratory program and ensure they make informed decisions about their future careers.
• 😀 Retention rates are higher for students who participate in university programs like the coaching and first-year seminars, showing the positive impact of early engagement.
• 😀 The first-year reading experience (FIRE) program has a high recommendation rate, with 90% of students endorsing its continuation due to its positive influence on their university experience.

Q & A

What is the primary role of the First Year Experience (FYE) department at the university?

The primary role of the FYE department is to support students' transitions into college, focusing on their academic success, engagement with the community, and providing essential resources to help them navigate their first year and beyond.

How does the First-Year Seminar contribute to student success?

The First-Year Seminar helps by engaging students with important skills such as time management, academic strategies, and social integration. It also allows faculty to identify struggling students and provide targeted support to ensure their success.

What was the outcome of the crowdfunding campaign conducted by the first-year seminar students?

The crowdfunding campaign raised 333% of its goal, amounting to $2,655, which was donated to the Salem State Pantry to assist food-insecure students.

What is the difference between the 'undeclared' and 'exploratory' student categories?

'Undeclared' often carries a negative connotation, while 'exploratory' is used as a more positive, asset-based term that encourages students to explore different majors before making a decision.

Why is the exploratory program considered beneficial for students?

The exploratory program helps students explore various majors and career paths, providing them with social events, peer leader engagement, and specialized advising to ensure they make informed decisions about their academic futures.

What have been the key outcomes of the exploratory program?

The exploratory program has resulted in an increased retention rate for students, particularly among men and students of color, while also lowering the number of holds students face from year to year.

What are some of the key events offered by the exploratory program to engage students?

Key events include the 'Meet Your Major' program, Majors/Minors Fair, fireside chats, lunch-and-learn sessions, and the True Talent assessment tool to help students discover their strengths and potential career paths.

What is the purpose of the First Generation Student Success Center?

The First Generation Student Success Center supports first-generation students by offering resources, professional development opportunities for faculty and staff, workshops, speaker events, and celebratory activities such as National First-Generation Celebration Week.

How does the First Year Day of Service impact student retention?

Participation in the First Year Day of Service has been shown to increase retention rates among students, as it fosters community engagement and a sense of belonging.

What is the impact of the Student Success Summit on first-year students?

The Student Success Summit provides first-year students with valuable tips and motivation, contributing to their academic success in the spring semester. Almost 90% of participants found the summit helpful in preparing them for their next phase at university.