To support scholars’ exploration and development, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s Division of Student Success has announced an extended-hours initiative designed to offer its services to scholars outside of the normal business day.
The initiative, titled “Student Success Express” will be offered every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 5-8 p.m. in Hodges Library, Ground Floor during the fall and spring semesters. G020 Hodges Library will also be used for Student Success Express related needs as well.
The grand opening of Student Success Express will commence on Tuesday, Sept. 3, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and opening remarks from Vice Provost of Student Success, Amber Williams. The celebration will also include a coffee-themed event, “Express-O,” featuring iced coffee, coffee-inspired treats, and a coffee balloon for event-goers to enjoy.
Student Success Express will feature walk-in appointments for scholars to meet with DSS personnel for casual conversation regarding school, academic needs and other support-related issues. Appointments made through Vol Connect prior to arrival are encouraged for more specialized support from coaches and advising specialists.
Additionally, specialized subject topics like career coaching or workshops, writing retreats, and general academic advising support will be provided each Wednesday of every month.
Vice Provost Williams will host a dynamic and interactive session titled “Beyond the Classroom” the first Tuesday of each month from 6-7 pm. This will be an opportunity
for student scholars to meet with the vice provost for student success, share thoughts, and strategize a best path forward towards success.
Students can also expect to receive help regarding the following areas:
• Scheduling support for advising appointments or facilitating a direct connection to an advisor or advising unit
• Technology support for Vol Connect, DARS, and uTrack, and “Plan Ahead” for registration
• Helping scholars identify and connect to necessary resources on campus.
If scholars are needing help with Academic Coaching, academic coaches will be available every evening during regular Student Success Express hours. If scholars are needing career guidance or help, the Center for Career Development & Academic Exploration (CCDAE) will be offering workshops on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month beginning at 5:30 pm. Career coaching will be available by drop in or through appointments scheduled on Vol Connect.
If scholars are seeking more information on undergraduate research, the Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships (OURF) will be offering “Getting Started in Undergraduate Research” seminars, Fellowships writing retreats, and research/fellowships advising (on the first Wednesday of each month).
If University Honors scholars need additional coaching, Honors will be offering Honors Coaching on the first Wednesday of each month.
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