Delaware State University Office of Student Success Hornet Experience Guide - Spring 2021

OUTREACH COMMUNIT SCHOLARSH Hornet EXPERIENCE INTEGRITY GUIDE DIVERSITY First Year and Beyond

OUTREACH COMMUNIT SCHOLARSH Spring 2021

Welcome!

FROM THE ASSOCIATE PROVOST Thank you for your interest in Delaware State University. On behalf of the Office of Student Success (OSS), we extend heartfelt greetings to you, the newest member of the Hornet family. You have made a very important decision that will impact the rest of your academic and professional careers.

Congratulations — Delaware State University is the best choice!

The relentless pursuit of excellence in the Office of Student Success is consistent with the University’s vision statement, “Delaware State University will be renowned for a standard of academic excellence that prepares our graduates to become the first choice of employers in a global market and invigorates the economy and the culture of Delaware and the Mid-Atlantic Region.”

OSS is the point of entry for all incoming freshmen and new transfer students. The Office of Student Success strives to provide a supportive student-centered environment in which students, faculty and staff work and study. Our Academic Advisors are excited to guide you on your educational journey from your first year through graduation. Our programs are designed to support your academic needs and to assist you in succeeding during your freshman year and beyond, as you persist toward graduation.

Our priority is to ensure that campus resources are fully accessible to you at every turn so that you can focus on the successful completion of your academic journey at Delaware State University.

The Office of Student Success offers:     

  

Professional Academic Advising Undergraduate Research, Experiential Learning and the Honors Program Individual Development Plans (IDP) Student Accessibility Services Integrated academic support which includes:  Tutorial Center  Writing Studio  Quantitative Reasoning Center  Supplemental Instruction Academic Programs (Student Success Sessions) Academic Services for Student Athletes Library Services

This is an exciting time to be a student at Delaware State University as we continue to grow and enhance our programs to national eminence. Through internships, research and innovation, we are committed to challenging, mentoring and providing an exceptional learning experience for our students. I encourage students to fully embrace and take full advantage of the rich learning environment available at Delaware State University.

I enthusiastically welcome you to campus and look forward to supporting you in making your career dreams a reality.

Best Regards,

Dr. Clytrice Watson, PhD Associate Provost | Delaware State University 2

Student Success offices are located on the second floor of the William C. Jason Library.

Table of

CONTENTS 4

What to Expect During Orientation

8

Academic Advising

12

Student Success Programs & Resources

16

Other Success Tools

18

Academic Policies & Procedures

21

Academic Advising Terms

22

Quick Reference Contacts

23

Tips for First-Year Student Success

OFFICE OF STUDENT SUCCESS MISSION The Office of Student Success introduces students to their college experience by providing a collegial and academically enriched environment.

As the point of entry for freshmen and incoming transfers, our support programs facilitate ongoing student engagement while promoting intellectual growth and development. The Office of Student Success encourages social integration through a variety of programs designed to assist students in succeeding during their Delaware State University experience, as they progress toward graduation.

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What to Expect During

ORIENTATION ACADEMIC ADVISING LEARNING OBJECTIVES During New Student Orientation, you will:  Review your course schedule with your Academic Advisor (your schedule will be completed by your Academic Advisor prior to New Student Orientation).  Confirm that your degree program major is accurate in Delaware State University’s Banner system. If not, you will complete a change of major form.  Understand the General Education curriculum requirements for the first year.  Understand curriculum requirements for your selected degree program(s).  Review your course request form for accuracy and sign.  Have your course request form approved (signed) by an Academic Advisor.  Review and confirm your course registration to ensure that you are enrolled in the required math course based on the ALEKS Placement Test results

(See ALEKS Placement Scores, Page 7).  Enroll in the required English course based on your demonstrated writing skills as measured by the SAT—Verbal/Writing Exam (See English Placement Scores, Page 7).  Understand how to access my.desu.edu.  Understand how to log in to Banner Self Service.  Understand how to use your alternate PIN number to search for available classes and enroll in courses.  Ensure that you are enrolled in a course load of 15 credit hours (minimum) and leave New Student Orientation with printed copies of your course schedule.  Know how to contact your Office of Student Success Academic Advisor after New Student Orientation.  Understand that your desu.edu email address is the official communication network of Delaware State University for communicating with

University faculty, staff and administration.

ADVISING AND COURSE SCHEDULING Departmental Visits During departmental visits, you will have an opportunity to meet the individuals who will guide you through the next four years of your matriculation at Delaware State University. The college Dean, Chairpersons, Faculty and Academic Advisors are very excited to welcome you and be a part of your educational journey. You will gain a better understanding about specific majors/degree programs as well as what is required to be successful in selected majors, and you will learn about opportunities for student involvement early in your academic career.

Reviewing Your Class Schedule Your schedule will be ready for you when you arrive at New Student Orientation. Academic Advisors will review your schedule with you, explaining important major and comprehensive educational requirements. If you have not yet taken the ALEKS Placement Test or turned in any previous college transcripts, you may notice a change in your schedule once this additional information becomes available. Academic Advisors will guide you through a step by step registration process using Banner Self Service. Starting with the first semester, our goal is for students to register in a minimum of 15 credit hours. The total number of credit hours that you take each semester is very important and will keep you on track to graduate in four years.

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USING BANNER SELF SERVICE TO REGISTER FOR CLASSES In the event that changes to your schedule need to be made, please follow the process below.

Access my.desu.edu

1. Visit www.desu.edu.

2. Click on Students tab (top).

3. Click Banner Self Service (right side gray panel box).

1. Enter your username which is your 9 digit Student ID; use a capital D.

Example: D10212345 2. Enter your PIN, which is your 6 digit date of birth.

Example: Your birth date is December 4, 1998; type in MMDDYY: 120498

If you need to reset your PIN, follow the prompts.

3. Select “Student Services” from the menu on the left side.

4. Select “Registration” from the menu.

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5. Click “Select Term” to choose the term for which you would like to register.

Example: Fall 2016

Click “Submit.”

6. Select “Add or Drop Classes” from the menu.

7. Enter your Alternate PIN number and click “Submit.” Your Alternate PIN number

will be provided by your advisor.

8. Search for classes by subject.

9. Scroll to the bottom of the screen and click “Class Search.”

10. Identify a course that works with your schedule.

Write the following information on your Course Request Form to avoid time conflicts:

CRN #; Department/Course #/Section; Title of Course/; (CR: credits), Class Days, Start Time & End Time

M=Monday, T=Tuesday, W=Wednesday, R=Thursday, F=Friday 11. Check box on left of the class.

12. Scroll to the bottom of the screen. Select “Register.”

13. Repeat this process (steps 8-12) until your schedule is complete (minimum 15 credit hours).

14. Once your schedule is completed, click “Return to Menu.”

15. Click “Student Detail Schedule”; review your schedule for accuracy.

16. Click “Submit Changes.”

Printing Your Schedule

1. Click on “Student Services.”

2. Select “Student Detail Schedule.”

3. Select the appropriate printer.

4. Print two (2) copies of your schedule.

5. Confirm the courses listed on your course request forms are the same on your printed schedule.

Understanding the Course Scheduling Matrix Abbreviation M T W R F

Class Day(s) Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Log Out/Exit Banner Self Service

1. Click “Exit” in the top right corner.

2. You should see the “User Logout” screen.

Understanding Registration Errors

If you get a registration error during the registration process, it may be due to one of the following reasons:  Time Conflict

 Two classes overlapping, or two classes offered at the same time.  Pre-requisite

 One or more courses that must be completed or other knowledge, skills or standards that must be demonstrated before a student is permitted to take certain courses.  Link Error: Registered for a science lecture, but did not register for the corresponding lab.

Example: You must register for a Biology lecture (01), and the linked lab (12). The lecture and lab may be on different days of the week.

Helpful Course Registration Tips

 Instructor or Building/Location indicates TBA = To be announced, or TBD = To be determined  This means that once an instructor or classroom location is assigned, the information will be updated prior to the first day of class.  Reminder: Print your schedule a day or two before the first day of class, in case the room assignment has changed.

How to access unofficial transcripts (transfer students) Your unofficial transcript is available in Banner Web Self Service.

1. Click on “Student Records. ” 2. Click on “Academic Transcript.”

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ENGLISH PLACEMENT For those who have submitted SAT scores, you will be placed accordingly as indicated. For those without SAT/ACT test scores, in accordance with the test optional policy you will be placed into an English Course as dictated by curriculum requirements.

Writing SAT Scores

 420 and Below — English Composition 101–IRWI (Intensive Reading and Writing Instruction)  421-599 — English Composition 101  600 and above — English Composition Honors–101H

Writing ACT Scores

 17 and Below — English Composition 101–IRWI (Intensive Reading and Writing Instruction)  18-24 — English Composition 101  25 and Above — English Composition Honors–101H

ALEKS MATH PLACEMENT ALEKS is an online artificially intelligent assessment and learning system. ALEKS uses adaptive questioning to quickly and accurately determine exactly what a student knows and does not know. The ALEKS Placement Assessment covers material from Basic Math through Pre-Calculus. After the assessment, the Prep and Learning Module targeting your specific math skills will be available for you to review and learn material.

If you score at least 45 points, then you are ready for college-level math courses. The chart below will show you the connection between the score you earned and the course you can take. In the event that you complete the ALEKS Placement Assessment after attending NSO, your advisor will help you select the right course for your major and will update your schedule.

Remember, you will not be permitted to take a math course above your readiness level even if you are just one point away. If you want to take a higher level course, use the ALEKS Prep and Learning Modules to improve your skills and retake the ALEKS Placement Assessment.

Minimum ALEKS Score

Courses you are permitted to take

Less than 30

No equivalent course.

You cannot register for any math courses. To place in a math course, you must review the content in the Prep and Learning Module. Then, retake the placement test and earn a score of 30 or higher to place into a math course.

30 - 44

MTSC 110 – College Algebra A. This course is equivalent to the first half of MTSC 121 – College Algebra. You must take MTSC 110 and MTSC 111 – College Algebra B to earn credit equivalent to MTSC 121.

30 - 100

MTSC 107 – Math and Data Analysis. All College of Health and Behavioral Sciences (CHBS) majors require College Algebra.

45 - 59

MTSC 121 – College Algebra

45 - 100

MTSC 105/201 – Mathematics for Teachers I

60 - 75

MTSC 122 – Trigonometry; or MTSC 125 – Finite Mathematics

60 - 100

MTSC 241 – Elementary Statistics

76 - 100

MTSC 251 – Calculus I; MTSC 261 – Calculus for Life Sciences; MTSC 225 – Calculus for Business and Social Sciences

Your ALEKS scores are valid for 9 months.

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Academic

ADVISING ACADEMIC ADVISING EXPERIENCE Academic advising at Delaware State University is designed to provide students with a collegial and academically enriched college experience. As a collaborative campus community, students are provided with guidance, support, planning tools and resources to make informed decisions that impact their academic success and career goals.

As a part of our core academic support services, the four-year student experience framework offers centralized advisement that is both proactive and holistic. Each student has an Individual Development Plan (IDP), which is a comprehensive studentplanning tool that charts first-year steps toward identifying and establishing interests, goals, majors and career pathways toward academic success.

STUDENT OBJECTIVES FOR FIRST-YEAR SUCCESS Students will:      

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Become aware of University policies and procedures Understand curriculum requirements Identify campus resources Strengthen oral and written communication skills Participate in academic community and social engagement opportunities Engage in peer learning

FIRST YEAR ACADEMIC ADVISING PROCESS The Office of Student Success is the point of entry for all first-year students.

The advising structure for first-year students is designed to: 1. Create a deeper understanding of academic policies and procedures.

2. Enhance the information flow with academic planning, alternate pathways (when appropriate) and early degree-program guidance.

During your freshman year, we will assist you in formulating an educational plan and introduce you to career goals that are closely aligned to your academic interests.

Your Academic Advisor will partner with you to develop your Individual Development Plan (IDP) (more information on your IDP, Page 16). You will be actively engaged and on a solid path to graduate within four years.

Office of Student Success Academic Advisors work very closely with campus wide faculty and staff to ensure that you receive exposure to your desired degree program of interest and to facilitate your participation in co-curricular activities within your academic major.

OFFICE OF STUDENT SUCCESS ACADEMIC ADVISING College of Health and Behavioral Sciences (CHBS)  Ms. Michele Rush

Director of Advising  Dr. Cindy Seto-Friel  Dr. Doreen Scott-Baker  Mr. Samuel Jay

College of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences (CHESS)  Ms. Charmaine Whyte

Director of Advising  Ms. Gloria Knowles  Dr. Carole Kpota-Middleton

College of Business (COB)  Ms. Tamekca Faria-Frisby

Director of Advising  Ms. Janet McCrea  Ms. Symone Merritt  Mr. Brian Passerell

College of Agriculture, Science and Technology (CAST)  Dr. Marcel Poe

Director of Advising  Dr. Leroy Hawkins  Ms. Lynae Spratley  Mr. Franck Yehiri

How to Schedule an Appointment The Office of Student Success utilizes Appointment Plus for students to schedule appointments with their advisor.

Visit www.desu.edu/academics/student-success, click “Find Your Advisor,” then the “Schedule an Appointment with Your Advisor” button. Reach the page directly at https://booknow.appointment-plus.com/9enxn92m.

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15 STRONG TO COMPLETION Freshmen start strong. Sophomores progress strong.

Juniors continue strong. Seniors graduate strong.  The 15 Strong to Completion student outreach campaign is a primary component of the Office of Student Success’ framework

for incoming freshmen.  15 Strong to Completion promotes a standard that encourages students to complete a minimum of 15 credit hours of

coursework per semester.  If students complete 30 credit hours after their first year, they are more likely to persist toward graduation and complete

their degree program in four years.

TRANSFER STUDENTS Once you have been admitted to a Delaware State University degree program, the University shall evaluate your college-level course credits submitted on an official transcript to determine if they shall be accepted in transfer and determine how the course credits will apply to program and graduation requirements. The process at Delaware State University involves at least three considerations: 1. The educational quality of your learning experience from the accredited intuitions from which you are transferring.

2. The content and level of the learning experience you received from the college or university.

3. Appropriateness and applicability of the learning experience to the programs offered by Delaware State University in light of your educational goals.

Academic Advising for Transfer Students

All transfer students will be assigned to two Academic Advisors: 1. A Professional Advisor 2. A Faculty Advisor in your selected degree program/major  Courses to be transferred must be equivalent to respective Delaware State University courses. Credits are evaluated according to the specific academic program.  College course credits obtained within the last 10 years are not accepted automatically and will be at the discretion of the appropriate department.  Course grades must at least be a “C” in order for the transfer credit to count. Grades of “C-” cannot transfer.

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SAMPLE COURSE REQUEST FORM

Sample Course Request Form (Use as a guide only) Year 20________

Fall________

Spring________ Summer________

_________________________________________________________________ Last Name

First Name Middle Initial

D# _____________________________

Major(s) and Minor/Concentration: ____________________________________________

Alt. Pin# _________________________

DSU Email: _________________________ Cell Phone: _________________________

May We Text You?  YES

 NO

Course Selection (Please Print)

CRN

DEPT

Course No#

SEC

Title of Course

CR

DAYS

Time

xxxxx

UNIV

191

01

University Seminar I

1

T

12:00 – 12:50 p.m.

xxxxx

MTSC

121

02

College Algebra

3

MWF

2:00 – 2:50 p.m.

xxxxx

MVSC

101

03

Lifetime Fitness & Wellness

2

T

4:30 – 7:15 p.m.

xxxxx

ENGL

101

04

English Composition I

3

TR

8:00 – 9:15 a.m.

xxxxx

BIOL

101

05 11

General Biology I & Lab

4

MW F

3:00 – 4:20 p.m. Class/Lecture 3:00 – 4:15 p.m. Lab

xxxxx

PSYC

201

06

Intro to General Psychology

3

Total Credit Hours

16

I am aware of my responsibility to check my schedule from BANNER web prior to the start of each semester. I understand that if I am not able to attend any of the above courses, I must officially drop the course(s). If I am unsuccessful in any course, I am aware that I must see my advisor.

Student Signature: _____________________________________ Date: ________________________________ Advisor Signature: _____________________________________ Date: ________________________________

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Student Success Programs &

RESOURCES HONORS PROGRAM The goal of the Delaware State University Honors Program is to provide talented and motivated students opportunities for intellectual growth and achievement in small, challenging classes that encourage active intellectual participation, discussion and collaboration in the search for knowledge.

Admission Criteria Incoming Freshmen and Transfer Students

Incoming freshmen and transfer students may apply for admission into the Delaware State University Honors Program at the same time they apply for admission to the University. Candidates for the Honors Program may apply by simply completing a short Honors Program application and sending all other application materials to the Honors Program.

A prospective honors student must have:  Admission to Delaware State University without conditions;  A GPA of 3.25 or higher (on a 4.0 scale);  An SAT combined score of at least 1050 in Mathematics and Critical Reading, with at least 450 in each section; OR

an ACT composite score of at least 22 in Mathematics and Critical Reading.

Application Materials To apply, visit www.desu.edu/academics/honors-program and submit the following materials to the Honors Program at honors@desu.edu:     

An official high school or college transcript (current Delaware State University students may submit an unofficial Delaware State University transcript); Copies of official SAT scores (for incoming freshmen only); Two (2) letters of recommendation from high school or college instructors; A typed 400-600 word essay explaining the desire to be admitted into the Honors Program; and A list of academic and extracurricular achievements/awards.

Benefits of Membership         

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Specialized classes and smaller class sizes Cohort classes — Freshmen, sophomore, junior and senior courses/activities Priority advising period/registration Graduate school preparation: LSAT, MCAT, GMAT, GRE Summer research experiences for undergraduates Opportunities to attend and present at scholarly workshops and conferences Access to leadership development Inclusion in the Honors Program Living-Learning Community for freshmen Membership in the Honors Students Association

STUDENT ACCESSIBILITY SERVICES The mission of Student Accessibility Services (SAS) is to provide equal opportunities and equal access to education, programs and activities for all students with disabilities at Delaware State University. SAS works collaboratively with University partners to foster a welcoming, diverse and inclusive University community.

In achieving this, SAS collaborates with and empowers students who have documented disabilities by working together proactively to determine reasonable and appropriate accommodative measures. In efforts to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) and other current legislation and eliminate attitudinal barriers against people with disabilities, SAS also provides institution-wide advisement, consultation and training on disability-related topics.

Potential areas of accommodation include, but are not limited to:  Classroom adjustments  Interpreters and other auxiliary services  Testing adjustments  Flexibility adjustments  Adaptive technology  Housing and dining  Physical accessibility Students with disabilities who would like to request reasonable accommodations must contact SAS and complete the SAS Registration Process: 1. Submit medical/mental health documentation and Student Request for Accommodations Form (available online).

2. Submitted materials are reviewed by the SAS Coordinator.

3. Meet with the SAS Coordinator to discuss any barriers to access in the educational environment experienced by the student.

4. Receive the Accommodation Letter (if approved) and provide copies to each individual facilitating the accommodations. a. Please note: Accommodations are not retroactive.

5. Renew the Accommodation Letter each semester using the online SAS renewal form.

Point of Contact for Student Accessibility Services:  Dr. Ann Knettler, Coordinator of Student Accessibility Services | 302.857.6898 (phone) | 302.857.7202 (fax) | Library, Room 204 | aksmith@desu.edu

TESTING SERVICES AND PROGRAMS The mission of the Testing Services and Programs Office is to assist Delaware State University students and the surrounding communities in assessing their knowledge, skills and abilities by providing a variety of programming that engages and promotes student success and professional credentialing certifications. This is accomplished through written, computerized exams (CBT/IBT), testing instruments and programming. TSP provides integrated testing services that will serve our Delaware State University community and surrounding areas in the Atlantic Region. Our customized career readiness platforms based on credentialing certifications and study sessions enable participants to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing and highly competitive global workforce economy. Areas targeted are professional, technical and health industries, academic and test prep study sessions and soft skills acquisition through work keys assessment.

Credit By Examination (CBE)

CLEP and DANTES are national recognized programs that are designed to assist students in achieving their college goals by testing them on course content they already know.

To learn more about CLEP offerings, visit www.collegeboard.org/CLEP. To learn more about DANTES (DSST) exam offerings, visit www.getcollegecredit.com.

Get Connected For Student Success

Testing strategies, career exploration assessment and college readiness programming targets student specific needs throughout their academic enrollment.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

Delaware State University is a testing center for the College Level Examination Program (CLEP). CLEP exams help students achieve their college goals by testing students on course information that they already know. Learn more about CLEP offerings and earning college credit by visiting clep.collegeboard.org/overview/collegecredit.

DSST Exams

Delaware State University is a testing center for the DSST Program. This program is nationally recognized and helps students receive college credits by offering more than 30 exams. For more information and to find out about exam offerings, visit www.getcollegecredit.com.

Point of Contact for the Office of Testing Services and Programs:  Dr. Darren Blackston | 302.857.6144 | testing@desu.edu

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GENERAL EDUCATION PROGRAM The General Education Program is the University’s commitment to providing breadth and depth to students’ academic, cultural, social, moral, ethical and physical development during their undergraduate experience. The goals of the General Education Program are divided into those areas of study that best describe the experiences that all students are required to complete in order to complement those experiences that the specialized curriculum in each major program of study provides.

Components of the General Education Program

The General Education Program at Delaware State University consists of Core, Breadth Areas, Senior Capstone Experience and Across-the-Curriculum Learning Outcomes.

Core

Courses that are essential to the mission of Delaware State University and are fundamental to learning. Completion of core courses with a grade of “C” or better is required of all students. The Core provides students with the knowledge and habits of mind that they will need in order to accomplish their academic goals in all major programs.

Core Courses

Credit Hours

University Seminar I

1

University Seminar II

1

English Composition I

3

English Composition II

3

Lifetime Fitness & Wellness

2

Speech

3

Global Societies

3

Total Credits for General Education Core

16

Breadth Areas

Categories of courses from which students must choose a designated number of credit hours that provide breadth and the well-roundedness of a liberal education in the arts, history, literature, other humanities, natural sciences, mathematics and social sciences. Minimum grade requirements for breadth courses vary by major program.

Senior Capstone Experience

Designed to integrate General Education and the major program, this experience may take the form of senior seminar, internship or student teaching with a seminar.

The Capstone serves as the culmination of the student’s undergraduate education. It enables students to make “real world” connections to their discipline and to other disciplines as well. The Senior Capstone Experience brings General Education and major programs of study together, providing an opportunity for students to demonstrate their becoming “the educated person.”

Across-the-Curriculum

Concepts that are integrated throughout the General Education Program and major curricula which produce the desirable learning outcomes in students are the following: 1. Reading, Speaking and Listening Across-the-Curriculum (RSL) 2. Self-Evaluation 3. Wellness 4. Information Literacy 5. Computer Competency 6. Writing in the Major (Outside the Capstone) 7. Quantitative Reasoning 8. African-American Experience 9. Multiculturalism 10. Critical Thinking/Problem-Solving 11. Global Issues For more information, please visit www.desu.edu/academics/general-education.

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INTEGRATED ACADEMIC SUPPORT SERVICES Quantitative Reasoning Center (QRC)

 The Office of Student Success Quantitative Reasoning Center provides FREE tutoring, workshops and Socratic Seminars to strengthen students’ mathematical

and critical thinking skills in math courses ranging from Developmental Math to Calculus I.  Our mission is to promote a holistic approach to tutorial sessions — reinforce course concepts, develop study skills and test-taking strategies,

and work collaboratively with other students.  The QRC is located in the William C. Library, Room 212. Our hours of operation are Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–8 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.  Point of Contact: Anna Cortese, Director, Integrated Academic Support Services | 302.857.6387 | Library, Room 206 | acortese@desu.edu

Tutorial Center  

 

The Office of Student Success Tutorial Center provides FREE tutoring and workshops to strengthen students’ critical thinking skills in various courses.

Our mission is to promote a holistic approach to tutorial sessions — reinforce course concepts, develop study skills and test-taking strategies, and work collaboratively with other students.

The Tutorial Center is located in the William C. Library, Room 206. Our hours of operation are Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–8 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Point of Contact: Anna Cortese, Director, Integrated Academic Support Services | 302.857.6387 | Library, Room 206 | acortese@desu.edu

Supplemental Instruction (SI)

 The Office of Student Success Supplemental Instruction provides FREE study group sessions facilitated by SI leaders who utilize multiple learning strategies to engage

students to work collaboratively in historically difficult courses.  Our mission is to promote a holistic approach to study group sessions — reinforce course concepts, develop study skills and test-taking strategies,

and work collaboratively with other students.  Point of Contact: Anna Cortese, Director, Integrated Academic Support Services | 302.857.6387 | Library, Room 206 | acortese@desu.edu

Writing Studio  

  

The Office of Student Success Writing Studio provides FREE tutoring service in writing for all students attending Delaware State University.

Our mission is to help students strengthen their skills in writing for any course across the curriculum. Our writing consultants assist in various modes of composition (comparative, exemplification, argumentative, etc.), as well as with brainstorming, thesis development, mechanics, organization, MLA and APA format, Senior Capstone and personal statements.

Tutoring services conducted by Writing Studio consultants are offered individually and in small groups through scheduled appointments or walk-in consultations.

The Writing Studio is located in the William C. Library, Room 205. Our hours of operation are Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–8 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Point of Contact: Sonya McCray, Writing Studio Coordinator | 302.857.7539 | Library, Room 207 | smccray@desu.edu

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS AND WORKSHOPS Academic programming is designed to enlighten and inspire students to succeed academically. These programs address the overall student need for educational development in a variety of areas. At the end of each program, participants are given a short evaluation that collects basic demographic information and assesses the participants’ understanding of the program.

UNIVERSITY SEMINAR The Office of Student Success is devoted to enhancing the first-year experience for freshman students at Delaware State University by serving as the premier resource for connecting incoming students with the academic components of the institution, faculty, staff and campus-wide resources. The Office of Student Success provides the guidelines and oversight of University Seminar I & II. University Seminar is a two semester, General Education comprehensive core course requirement that focuses on assisting first-year students in a seamless transition from high school to college, and in becoming familiar with Delaware State University. University Seminar is specifically designed to develop academic skills including critical reading, thinking, listening, writing and speaking, as well as using the academic library and pertinent technology. As a result of this course, each student should come to realize that the University is a unique culture grounded in tradition and history and guided by shared assumptions and expectations of students, professors and administrators. The strands and goals of the General Education Program are embedded in the class activities, providing each student with the opportunity to cultivate the critical thinking skills and knowledge necessary to become globally competitive.

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Other Success

TOOLS INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN (IDP) What is an IDP?

An Individual Development Plan (IDP) is a comprehensive student planning tool that charts our students’ steps in the first year and beyond, through identifying and establishing interests, goals, majors and career pathways toward academic success. Embedded with ongoing relationships with advisors, faculty, staff and peers, each Delaware State University student will be able to personalize their University experiences as they develop attitudes and behaviors reflective of the University Core Values.

What is the purpose of the IDP?

In the context of the first-year student, the purpose of the IDP is to chart the first-year steps of our students’ interests, goals and majors toward academic success.

The IDP creates an environment to begin developing a relationship with the advisor/faculty that fosters student success.

What is the process?

During the summer, advisors begin creating a preliminary strategy that outlines a plan of action to utilize academic support services needed beginning in the fall semester. At the beginning of the fall semester, advisors and students must schedule their first advising appointment to begin utilizing their IDP. Students will meet with their advisor during the fall semester to review and adjust the IDP during the following time frames: Time Frame Week 1-4 Week 6-7 Week 11-13

IDP Action Item Develop Plan Midpoint Review and Adjust Plan End of Semester Review and Adjust Plan

Note: IDPs should be reviewed at every advisement session.

Is the IDP a requirement?

YES! This tool is used to help students become successful from the freshman year to graduation and beyond. Additionally, the IDP is to help augment the usage of Degree Works (see more information, next page).

Who will review the IDP?

Students, Professional Advisors and Faculty Advisors, and the Registrar will have access to review IDPs as they will be an essential tool connected within Banner, Degree Works and Blackboard (see more information, next page) as students progress toward completing their degree.

Student Learning Outcomes

Student Learning Outcomes will form as a result of what students learn through academic advising, utilization of resources, support services and interventions.

The retention intervention is advisement — more specifically, their IDP advisement session.

As a result of the IDP session with their Academic Advisor, students will be able to:  Access DegreeWorks to help manage their progress toward degree completion  Identify and use their course curriculum guide as a checklist  Prepare a class schedule using DegreeWorks and course curriculum guides  Identify the need for tutoring and utilize academic support service  Identify strategies to improve mid-semester grades  Evaluate and develop individual career goals in the selected major program

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DEGREE WORKS Degree Works is an academic student planning tool that allows students to academically track their progress toward degree completion.

For students, Degree Works:  Provides real-time advice and counsel  Speeds time to graduation  Provides intuitive web access to self-service capabilities  Streamlines the graduation process  Allows direct access to multiple related services and advice through hyperlinks to catalog information, class schedules, transcripts, help desk services and FAQs

BLACKBOARD Blackboard is a virtual learning environment and course management system.

How do I access Blackboard as a student?

Students can access Blackboard from any computer that has an Internet connection. Go to https://dsuonline.blackboard.com and enter the username and password.  Username: This is the same username used to access a student email account.  Password: This is the same password used to access a student email account.

Example: Username: jdoe13@students.desu.edu / Password: {student email password}

I logged in but I have a course not showing or a course that needs to be removed.

 The system will automatically update Blackboard with a student’s courses from Banner. The updates occur several times during the day. Any course changes

in Banner should be automatically reflected on Blackboard within 24 hours.

Assistance:

 For log-in assistance, please contact the IT Help Desk at 302.857.7028 or stop by the IT office located in the Bank of America Building, Room 313.  For all other issues with Blackboard, please contact Distant Education and Learning Technologies at blackboard@desu.edu or stop by the

Education & Humanities Building, Room 205.

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ACADEMIC Policies and Procedures

CHANGE IN MAJOR OR PERSONAL DATA Students must submit their change of major and personal data (address or telephone number) changes on the appropriate forms available in the Office of Records and Registration as often as necessary.

CLASSIFICATION OF STUDENTS    

0-29 Hours 30-59 Hours 60-89 Hours 90 Hours and above

Freshman Sophomore Junior Senior

GRADING SYSTEM    



A grade is reported for each course in which a student is enrolled. The grade is an indication of the quality of the student’s performance in a course.

Mid-semester and final grades will be issued to all students for all courses enrolled.

Final grades become a part of the student’s permanent record and are used in computing grade point averages.

If a student repeats a course, the highest grade in the course is calculated in the grade point average (GPA). The lower grade earned in the course is disregarded when calculating the GPA, but is not deleted from the student’s record. On the student’s transcript, an “E” placed next to a course indicates the repetition of a course excluded from the GPA and an “I” indicates the repetition of a course included in the GPA. The GPA is computed by dividing the total number of quality points by the total number of GPA hours earned. Nontraditional grades including grades of I, W, WA, AU, S, U, and P are not computed in the GPA.

Delaware State University’s Grading System Grade

Quality Points

Explanation

A

4.00

Excellent

B

3.00

Good

C

2.00

Fair

D

1.00

Poor

F

0.00

Failure

WF

0.00

Withdrawal/Fail

I

(Not Computed in GPA)

Incomplete

W

(Not Computed in GPA)

Withdrew

WA

(Not Computed in GPA)

Administrative Drop

AU

(Not Computed in GPA)

Audit - Not Taken For Credit

S

(Not Computed in GPA)

Satisfactory

U

(Not Computed in GPA)

Unsatisfactory

P

(Not Computed in GPA)

Pass

FULL-TIME STATUS The minimum course load for full-time status is 12 credit hours per semester. A full-time student is normally expected to complete 30 credit hours of coursework each academic year (fall, spring and summer terms) and must complete a minimum of 24 hours of coursework each academic year to qualify for financial aid.

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CLASS ATTENDANCE POLICY Regular class attendance is a vital part of the educational process. Students are required to attend all classes. If a faculty member chooses to evaluate attendance as part of a grade for a course, such a policy must be written in the syllabus, which is distributed at the beginning of a course. The policy must state what part of the course grade is based on attendance and how individual absences will be assessed. If a faculty member declines to integrate attendance as part of a course grade, under no circumstances may a student’s final grade be reduced solely because of class absences.

The Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs issues excuses for students who are absent from classes due to participation in official University-related activities or on University-related travel. In all other cases, only the instructor can approve a student’s request to be excused from class.

SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS Definition

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is the standard college students must meet to remain eligible for Title IV Federal Student Aid (FSA) as well as some state, institutional and private financial aid funds. To remain eligible for federal financial aid money — grants, work-study funds and student loans — college students must meet certain standards in the classroom. In financial aid speak, those standards are called Satisfactory Academic Progress.

When SAP is Reviewed

At Delaware State University, Satisfactory Academic Progress is monitored at the end of each fall, spring and summer semesters. Students MUST meet both components of Satisfactory Academic Progress as stated in the criteria below. This requirement is different from a non-Title IV recipient who may enroll in the next summer session or semester without intervention of an appeal.

SAP GPA Criteria Good Academic Standing (Qualitative Component)

Students must earn a minimum cumulative grade point average that meets the requirements for continuing enrollment and graduation as defined by the University.  Undergraduate Students: 2.0 cumulative GPA

Delaware State University’s SAP calculation will include all hours attempted.

Academic progression (Quantitative Component) — Pace of Completion

Students must progress toward their education goal by earning credits at Delaware State University at the minimum rate. Students are evaluated on pace of completion, meaning students must complete 66.67% of the credit hours in which they are enrolled beyond the last day of add/drop. Courses in which students receive an “F”, “W,”“WF” or “AW” grade do not count as earned hours but will count in the attempted hours as well as repeated courses. Only courses in which students receive grades of “A,”“B,”“C” or “D” count as earned hours. Audit coursework does not count. The formula used to determine the pace of completion consists of taking the credit hours completed and dividing that number by the credit hours attempted. This number must be equal to or exceed 66.67%. Advance standing hours (e.g., transfer and AP) that are accepted for credit are counted in both the hours attempted and hours completed. Incompletes and withdrawals are attempted, but not completed, credit hours and will decrease a student’s pace of completion. Redemption and duplicate credits are counted as completed credit hours only once and will also decrease a student’s pace of completion.

Maximum Time Frame

Undergraduate students must complete their degree in 150% of the time frame published in the University Catalog. The maximum time frame is measured by the average number of credit hours required to complete a degree multiplied by required percent (based on the undergraduate program). This is the maximum number of credit hours a student can attempt and maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress. Advance standing hours applied toward the student’s degree program (e.g., transfer, AP and pre-requisite) count in the maximum time frame.

Students who are aware of learning or other disabilities should immediately contact the Office of Student Accessibility Services so that appropriate accommodations can be made. Students with documented disabilities and functional limitations are still held to the same academic expectations as other students. If the student has selfidentified with the Office of Student Accessibility Services and is receiving appropriate accommodations, the student should be able to maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress for financial aid purposes.

Procedures

Each Title IV Federal Student Aid (FSA) recipient’s record will be evaluated at the end of each semester to determine if the student is meeting the standards described above. If the student has reached the maximum number of credits or completed all degree requirements without earning a degree, the student must be excluded from further participation in federal financial aid programs. In addition, if the student has reached or exceeded 150% (undergraduate) in total attempted credit hours for his or her degree program without earning a degree, the student must be excluded from further participation in federal financial aid programs.

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NOTE: Federal regulations require that these standards apply to all students, even to first-time aid applicants who have previously enrolled at Delaware State University, or to those who have not been formally placed on probation.

Students initially deemed not to be making Satisfactory Academic Progress will be notified through their Delaware State University email. Students identified as not meeting SAP requirements are initially placed in a “Warning” status in which they remain eligible to receive Title IV funding for the following semester in which they enroll. Students receiving a “Warning” status email are not required to complete any necessary action. If a student is identified as not meeting SAP requirements at the end of the “Warning” status semester, the student is then placed in a “Unsatisfactory” category and the student loses financial aid eligibility until an appeal is submitted and approved or the student opts to attend without receiving federal or institutional financial aid while completing courses to meet SAP cumulative requirements and regain his or her SAP standing. The mere passage of time will not ordinarily restore eligibility to a student who has lost eligibility for failure to make Satisfactory Academic Progress.

Appeal Process

Students have the right to appeal a decision of ineligibility to continue to receive financial assistance. Appeals must be filed prior to the published deadline in order to be considered. The appeal may NOT be based upon need for the assistance OR lack of knowledge that the assistance was in jeopardy. An appeal must be based upon some extenuating circumstance which prevented a student from passing most of his or her courses, or which necessitated withdrawing from classes. The situation/condition must have taken place within the semester(s) the student did not meet Satisfactory Academic Progress. Examples of possible situations include documented serious illness, severe injury or death of an immediate family member, or family crisis.

Note: Students may only submit an appeal two (2) times within their academic program time frame. All appeals after will be automatically denied, with the exception of special extenuating circumstances.

For full information on Satisfactory Academic Progress, please visit www.desu.edu/satisfactory-academic-progress-sap.

ADDING AND DROPPING CLASSES Eligible students without financial holds are permitted to add and drop classes online at the University’s my.desu.edu website. The approval to adjust the course schedule online must be obtained from the student’s Academic Advisor prior to going online to adjust his/her schedule.

Adding classes

To add a class, students may go online after obtaining approval from their Academic Advisor or department Chair or follow the steps below: 1. Obtain a Notice of Class Change form (Drop/Add Slip) from the Academic Advisor.

2. Complete the student and class information parts of the form.

3. Obtain the signatures of the appropriate instructor and the appropriate Advisor/Chairperson.

4. Submit the completed form to the Office of Records and Registration. The effective date of the add is the date the slip is filed in the Records Office.

The deadline for adding classes is outlined in the Academic Calendar. Exceptions to the deadline period set forth shall be allowed only in cases involving

extraordinary circumstances. Such exceptions shall be at the sole discretion of the appropriate academic dean.

Dropping classes

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To drop a class, students may go online after obtaining approval from their Academic Advisor or department Chair or follow the steps below: 1. Through the End of Late Registration:

a. Obtain the Notice of Class Change form (Drop Slip) from the academic department. b. Have instructors and Advisors/Chairs sign and date the form. c.

Submit the form to the Office of Records and Registration. The effective date of the drop is the date the slip is filed in the Records Office. Courses dropped

prior to the end of the Late Registration Period will not appear on the student’s grade report or transcript. See the Refund Policy statement to determine

financial responsibility, if any, for courses dropped during this period.

2. After Late Registration through the Scheduled Last Day for Dropping Classes: a. Obtain the Notice of Class Change form (Drop Slip) from the academic department. b. Have instructors and Advisors/Chairs sign and date the form. c.

Submit the form to the Office of Records and Registration. The effective date of the drop is the date the slip is filed in the Records Office. The dropped course

will appear on the grade report and transcript with a grade of “W” for “Withdrew.” See the Refund Policy statement to determine financial responsibility, if

any, for courses dropped during this period.

3. After the Scheduled Last Day for Dropping Classes and up to the Last Week of Classes: a. Obtain the Notice of Class Change form (Drop Slip) from the academic department. b. Have instructors and Advisors/Chairs sign and date the form. c.

Students must obtain the signature of the dean of the school/college. The dean is the only University official who may approve the dropping of a class at

this point in the semester. The appropriate dean shall permit students who officially request to drop specific classes from their academic schedules to do so

only in cases involving extraordinary circumstances that are clearly beyond the control of the students making such a request. In no case shall a student be

permitted to drop a class for any reason that relates exclusively to academic performance. d.

Submit the form to the Office of Records and Registration. The course will appear on the grade report and transcript with a grade of “WA” for “Administrative Withdrawal.”

Academic Advising

TERMS

Academic Advisor* | A department or college-based faculty or staff member who meets with students each semester to discuss and create an academic plan designed to meet students’ educational and career goals, review University resources and programs, review curricular choices and monitor progress toward achieving educational goals.

Credit | The number of credits assigned to a course is generally based upon the amount of time the class meets each week.

*All students within their first year journey are assigned to Office of Student Success Academic Advisors.

Department | A unit within a college representing a discipline.

Academic Probation | A student with a grade point average below 1.70 at the end of any semester will be placed on academic probation for the succeeding semester unless the student’s cumulative grade point average is 2.00 or greater.

Discipline | An area of study representing a branch of knowledge, such as mathematics.

Academic Suspension | A student on probation who fails to earn a 2.00 average the following semester will be suspended academically.

Academic Year | The part of the year that includes the fall and spring semesters.

Audit | Attend a course without receiving credit. The final grade of “AU” is assigned to the course and does not affect the grade point average.

Catalog | A resource of all academic policies and procedures, college and degree requirements, faculty, and course descriptions.

Classification | Level of progress toward a degree based on the number of semester hours passed.

College | An academic unit of the University.

Each college represents an organization of related departments.

Commencement (also known as Graduation) | A formal ceremony in which colleges award degrees to graduating students. DSU has both Fall and Spring commencement or graduation ceremonies.

Common Final Exam | Common final is given to all sections of a course at a designated time (i.e. Common final in Math).

Contact Hours | The number of hours the class meets per week.

Core Courses | Classes that all students in a major program are required to take.

Course Load | The total number of credit hours taken in a semester. For example, the average course load for any semester is 15 to 16 credit hours. Students registered for at least 12 hours are considered full-time at DSU. Curriculum | Specific degree program courses that are required by an academic college.

Degree Works | A software system that permits a student to see her/his academic progress toward specified degree, college and University requirements.

Dismissal | Academic Dismissal is the end result of a pattern of multiple semesters of grades below the University’s standards for Good Standing (2.00 or higher GPA).

Double Major | A student may elect to pursue two majors at one time.

Drop/Add | The process of adjusting a student’s schedule by dropping and/or adding courses after the semester’s first day of class.

Dual Degrees | A student may elect to pursue two degrees at one time.

FAFSA | Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA is used to determine the need for financial assistance.

FERPA | Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. The act protects a student’s academic record within the post-secondary educational setting.

Final Exams | Tests or exercises given at the end of a term. A schedule for final exams is listed in each semester.

Financial Aid | Financial aid is designed to supplement family resources. Financial assistance at the University is made available through scholarships, grants, loans and part-time employment opportunities.

Federal financial aid is assistance for educational expenses to include tuition, fees, room and board.

General Education Requirement | One of the requirements for a bachelor’s degree. It is a pattern of courses which students complete, regardless of their major, to ensure that they have a broad educational experience.

Grade Point Average (GPA) | A measure of scholastic performance. The GPA is obtained by dividing the number of grade points by the credit hours.

Hold | A block on a student’s account that will not allow the student to enroll in/drop/add classes (i.e. financial aid or registration holds).

Major | Concentrated study in a subject area of special interest.

Minor | A secondary field of study requiring fewer credits than the major.

Office Hours | Professors and advisors are usually required to hold office hours on a regular basis throughout the semester so that students are able to drop in or schedule an appointment to meet with them.

Office of the Registrar | The office that plans and oversees registration, academic record maintenance, transcript preparation, graduation, degree audit report system, curricular records and University catalogs.

Prerequisite | One or more courses that must be completed or other knowledge, skills or standards that must be demonstrated before a student is permitted to take certain courses.

Registration | The act of signing up for classes using Banner Web Self Service.

Removal for Non-Payment | Students’ housing/meal assignments and registration will be removed due to non-payment in accordance with the published date in the Academic Calendar and Course Schedule Guide.

Semester or Term | Semester and term are used synonymously to identify the designated period during which classes are scheduled. The fall semester begins in August and the spring semester begins in January.

Student ID Number or “D Number” | An eight-digit number generated for students upon admission to the University.

Syllabus | A course outline provided by the instructor to students that delineates course requirements, grading criteria, course content, faculty expectations, deadlines, exam dates, grading policies, class attendance requirements and other relevant course information.

Transcript (Official) | Certified academic record that contains an official seal from the Registrar’s Office.

Transfer Credit | Courses taken at another institution and transferred to DSU for institutional credit.

University Seminar | A form of small group instruction, combining independent research and class discussions, under the guidance of a professor in a student’s major. One-two credit hours: UNIV 191 (fall); UNIV 192 (spring).

Withdrawal | Dropping all the courses of enrollment for the current term (withdrawal from the University) or withdrawal from an individual course. There are deadlines affixed to either withdrawal.

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Quick Reference

CONTACTS

Office of Student Success | William C. Jason Library | Second Floor | www.desu.edu/academics/student-success OFFICE OF STUDENT SUCCESS MAIN OFFICE Dr. Clytrice Watson, Associate Provost Jarso Jallah Saygbe, Associate Vice President Dr. Cassandra Green, Assistant Vice President Shonda Poe, Director, Undergraduate Research, Experiential Learning and Honors Program Danielle Craig, Assistant Director, Experiential Learning & Data Analysis Kevin Noriega, Director, Opportunity Scholars Program Benita Solola, Administrative Assistant/Budget Analyst Terry Pauls-Smith, Secretary – Honors Program Anthony Asti, Project Assistant OFFICE OF STUDENT SUCCESS COLLEGE TEAM LEADERS Tamekca Faria-Frisby, Director of Advisement – COB Dr. Marcel Poe, Director of Advisement – CAST Michele Rush, Director of Advisement – CHBS Charmaine Whyte, Director of Advisement – CHESS ACADEMIC ADVISORS Dr. Leroy Hawkins Samuel Jay Gloria Knowles Dr. Carole Kpota-Middleton Janet McCrea Symone Merritt Brian Passerell Dr. Doreen Scott-Baker Dr. Cindy Seto-Friel Lynae Spratley Frank Yehiri First and Second Year Programs – Tiffany Alexander Retention and Intervention Support Services –Dianne Bogle Student Accessibility Services – Dr. Ann Knettler Tutorial Center & Supplemental Instruction – Anna Cortese Writing Studio – Sonya McCray Quantitative Reasoning Center – Anna Cortese Jill McKinney, College Success Specialist ATHLETIC ACADEMIC SERVICES FOR STUDENT ATHLETES Nikita Robins-Thompson Jabree Belcher Christina E. Chiazor Ahira Smith Timothy Zinzel Office of Admissions Bookstore Career Services Counseling Services Office of Financial Aid International Affairs – Candace Alphonso Moore, Director IT Help Desk Judicial Affairs Library Services – Tracey Hunter-Hayes, Director Mail Center Office of Student Leadership Activities Public Safety Records (Registrar) Residential Housing Student Accounts Student Affairs Student Employment Student Government Association (SGA) Student Health Services – Dr. Michelle Fisher, Director Testing Services and Programs – Dr. Darren Blackston, Director Winter Weather Advisory: Snow Hotline

302.857.7542 302.857.7550 302.857.6072 302.857.6388 302.857.6715

aasti@desu.edu cawatson@desu.edu jsaygbe@desu.edu cgreen@desu.edu spoe@desu.edu

Library Second Floor Library 229 Library 200 Library 223 A Library 223 B

302.857.7958 302.857.6188 302.857.7542 302.857.7514 302.857.7201

dkcraig@desu.edu kenoriega@desu.edu bsolola@desu.edu tpsmith@desu.edu aasti@desu.edu

Library 301 Library 221 B Library 232 Library 228 Library Second Floor Cubicle

302.857.6907 302.857.7984 302.857.6742 302.857.7142

tfaria@desu.edu mpoe@desu.edu mrush@desu.edu cwhyte@desu.edu

BOA 108 G Library 221 A Price 111 Library 214 C

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lhawkins@desu.edu sjay@desu.edu gknowles@desu.edu ckpota@desu.edu jmccrea@desu.edu smerritt@desu.edu bpasserell@desu.edu dscottbaker@desu.edu cfriel@desu.edu lspratley@desu.edu fyehiri@desu.edu talexander@desu.edu dbogle@desu.edu aksmith@desu.edu acortese@desu.edu smccray@desu.edu acortese@desu.edu jmckinney@desu.edu

Baker 214 B Price 111 Library 214 E Library 214 F BOA 108 F BOA 108 C BOA 108 B Price 111 Library 208 Library 223 Library 212A Library 214 A Library 213 Library 204 Library 206 Library 207 Library 212 Library 214

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nrobinsthompson@desu.edu jbelcher@desu.edu cechiazor@desu.edu aysmith@desu.edu tzinzel@desu.edu admissions@desu.edu

Library 221 Library 227 B Library 230 Library 226 Library 227 A Claibourne D. Smith Administration Building Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center Cottage 504 Claibourne D. Smith Administration Building Grossley 115 A

careerplanning@desu.edu rrobinson@desu.edu faid@desu.edu cmoore@desu.edu support@desu.edu judicialaffairs@desu.edu thunterhayes@desu.edu copycenter@desu.edu osla@desu.edu registrar@desu.edu housing@desu.edu studentaccounts@desu.edu studentaffairs@desu.edu studentemployment@desu.edu mfisher@desu.edu testing@desu.edu

Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center Library 127 Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center Claibourne D. Smith Administration Building Claibourne D. Smith Administration Building Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center Memorial Hall West Thomasson 202

Tips for First-Year Student

SUCCESS

 Go to class!  Meticulously read and review each course syllabus.  Have the required textbook for each course.

 It is not optional, it is necessary!  Perform like a pro.  Go to class prepared and participate in class

(e.g. stay awake, take thorough notes, answer questions).  Serious about getting work done?

 Find a good location. Use the library, study rooms or empty classrooms.

 Make doing your coursework (e.g. assignments and reading) a habitual ritual.

 Turn in all assignments on time!  Guidance and help exist.

 Set up your tutors before there is a problem.  Write it down.

 Gather your syllabus from each class and plot major assignments, quizzes

and exams on a monthly calendar.  Take breaks to get energized.

 Eat, sleep, exercise and relax!  Be a test preppie.

 Before a test, quiz yourself to see if you can recall information without

looking at notes and textbooks.  Get to know your professors and advisor.

 Visit them during their office hours and ask questions when needed.  Set SMART goals.

S Specific goals have a much greater chance of being accomplished.

M Measure your progress to stay on track.

A Make your goals attainable. Plan your steps wisely.

R To be realistic, set goals which you are both willing and able to work.

T Your goal should be grounded within a time frame.

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William C. Jason Library, Room 208 1200 N. DuPont Highway Dover, DE 19901 302.857.7542 studentsuccess@desu.edu www.desu.edu/academics/ student-success

Delaware State University was founded in 1891 and is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

Delaware State University is committed to assisting all members of its community with safety and security. Information about campus security and personal safety, including crime prevention, University police law enforcement authority, crime reporting policies, crime statistics for the most recent three-year period and disciplinary procedure, is available on the University website at www.desu.edu/police. If you would like a booklet with this information, you can contact a representative of the University Police Department at 1200 North DuPont Highway, Campus Police Building, Dover, DE 19901 or by phone at 302.857.7911. For important consumer information, please visit www.desu.edu/consumer-information.

It will be the policy of Delaware State University to recruit, hire, train and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, veteran status, national origin or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. ŠDelaware State University 12/20