Research indicates that a positive first year experience is integral to student success in higher education. In an effort to facilitate a smooth transition from high school to college, upperclass students are linked with first year students to assist them in developing college survival skills such as critical thinking and academic skills, proper student habits, and time management strategies. Wright State University faculty or staff members with a number of incoming undergraduate students. The goals of the program are to promote a bond between the student and mentor, improve student retention, and enhance the student s academic success. Active members learn valuable skills such as public speaking, listening, and program development.
All interested students are welcome to inquire.
Academic credit is offered for interested students. The S.M.A.R.T. program was started in May 1993 with a small grant funded through the WSU Alumni Foundation. The pilot program focused on African American nursing students, but the program has since been expanded to focus on all under-represented populations. The program is a peer-mentoring model coordinated by the nursing students. The student coordinators hold office hours for drop-in mentoring.