Do you know a student who could use a more personal form of onboarding and academic support? If so, try reaching out to Caryn Zelazo. After being a long-time advisor, Caryn was recently hired for a position brand-new at the college, but much needed: Assistant Director of First Year Experience (FYE) Programming. This FYE programming offers a more hands-on experience for students to get assistance and make connections outside of the classroom.
“It’s really fun to see students get excited about things they’re learning out of the classrooms…for them to think, ‘I went to Academic Planning and it's actually doable for me to graduate and transfer,’” Caryn said.
During the 2022 Spring Semester, a pilot, caseload management system was implemented. The system assigned a peer mentor to all new incoming students, based on their area of study. Students met their peer mentors at orientation and at a meet-and-greet the second week of classes. Throughout the semester, mentors are available during office hours for support. They also check in weekly with their mentees via email to let them know about fun events, educational supports, and community resources.
First Year Programming also hosts workshops co-facilitated by the peer mentors, such as Life Management, Academic Planning, and various financial seminars.
The Life Management Workshop is an opportunity for students to reflect on how they prioritize their most meaningful life obligations and learn time management. Students break down their day hour-by-hour to assess how they are spending their time and where they can make better choices to be more confident, both in school and in their personal and professional lives.
The Academic Planning Workshop helps students feel more in control of the academic processes that can be difficult for many to navigate, especially as a new college student. Students learn how to use The Q, utilize their degree audit, and plan their semesters, in order to stay on track for graduation and what comes next (i.e. transferring to a four-year institution).
Thus far, the student feedback has been very positive. One student noted, “It was a good starting point. I look forward to the upcoming meetings.” Another mentioned, “It was a nice experience. It was good to see that I’m not alone.”
Connection to others is an essential part of this programming.
“This is where you get exposure to different people and different backgrounds. It's about shared experiences and creating a sense of community outside the classroom, which we believe help students be successful,” Caryn said.
First Year Programming is just getting warmed up, so be sure to keep an eye out for what is in store this year. One upcoming project is a collaboration with QCC Mentoring, Career Services and Credit for Prior Learning, and Brothers & Keepers. Students will be matched with an employer in their career field of interest. After some workplace etiquette training students will be able to shadow an employee in person or virtually, followed by completing a reflection on the experience.
There will also be a collaboration with the QCC Foundation Scholarship Administrator and the Writing Center for a workshop on scholarships. The workshop will take place on April 27, via Zoom.
Other Upcoming Events include:
- Life Management Workshops are offered on the last Monday of every month. The next workshop will be Monday, March 28, via Zoom.
- Academic Planning Workshops are happening Tuesday, March 1 –Thursday, March 10, via Zoom.
- DCU financial seminars are offered once a month. The next seminar will be Wednesday, March 30 and cover personal loans.
For more information, contact Caryn Zelazo at czelazo@qcc.mass.edu.