High Impact Practices Leading the Nation on Taking HIPs to Scale The College System of Tennessee is the first system in the U.S. collecting student-level data on participation in High Impact Practices (HIPs). HIPs increase the probability of academic success, improve graduation rates and narrow achievement gaps between racial-ethnic groups. Employers value HIP experiences and skills because they indicate readiness and preparation for the job market. First-Year Seminar Students at CSCC Use Service Learning Project to Make a Difference Dual enrollment students in Cleveland State’s First-Year Seminar (FYS) class wanted to make sure their special needs classmates had an opportunity to experience the 2019 prom. The FYS students took a “divide and conquer” approach to pulling off an amazing experience for their classmates. Some raised money, while some garnered community support and donations for dresses and tuxedos. Others spearheaded communications with parents, teachers and students throughout the semester. On prom night, the guests of honor arrived in limos, were treated to a pre-prom Italian feast and were whisked away to experience the best prom night ever.

I learned a lot about myself from this project. I wanted to give back to others, not because they are special needs, but because they are human just like everyone else – they are my classmates. – Tekeya Smith First-Year Seminar Student

Cleveland State First-Year Seminar class >>

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