Orientation

WHAT TO EXPECT

All new students beginning the Pathway Program are required to attend INTO USF Orientation. The goal of Orientation is to familiarize you with the resources available to assist you with your academic, immigration, and personal needs. You will be invited to a session with information about Finance, Immigration, and the Credentials areas and “Meet Your Academic Advisor” and the “Learning Resource Services”. The Orientation Team will send you a email about attending the sessions.

During the “Meet Your Academic Advisor” session, students will:

•Meet their Academic Advisors and learn about how they can assist students in meeting academic goals.

•Learn more about progression requirements, undergraduate requirements, and class expectations.

•Learn about the technology used in the Pathway Program and have time to answer any questions you may have. It is very important that you attend the “Meet Your Academic Advisor” session presented by your assigned Pathway Advisor so that you receive information specific to your program.

INTO FACES

PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW

Jenny Schultz

Associate Director Academic & Learning Support

Karolina Goldberg

Assistant Director Academic & Learning Support

Andrei Danila Coordinator of Learning & Testing

Donna Rock

Coordinator for Learning and Management

Brian Goercke Wellness & Welfare Specialist

Hong Wu Fiscal and Business Assistant

UNDERGRADUATE PATHWAY TEAM

INTO academic advisors are a student's academic advocates within the Pathway program and are interested in student development. Academic advisor’s guide students through the USF progression requirements and are invested in the student success. Advisors are aware of USF and Pathway requirements and can answer your questions, or direct you to one of many campus resources. Your INTO Academic advisor will assist you with course planning, registration, and academic counseling.

Watch this video for a glimpse of what former INTO USF students experienced at their Orientation!

Matthew Dailey, M.S.

“I have been advising at USF INTO Pathway for over seven years working with the Computer Science, Science and Engineering cohorts. It is important to me that my students, progress from the INTO Pathway program into USF and are properly informed of the USF programs and services offered to them. In my free time, I enjoy working on my house, attending sporting events, and fishing. “

Andrew Smith, B.S.

“What I enjoy most about being a Business and Pathway Academic Advisor is getting to help others and getting to learn about new cultures and new places. Seeing students adapt to new surroundings and ultimately achieve their goals in another aspect that makes advising so rewarding. My best advice to students is don’t be afraid to ask for help! There are many resources available to help you succeed, so take advantage of them! “

Joe-Berry Gardner, M.Ed.

“Advisor and help others on their journey! I am always here to listen, even if your concerns are not necessarily related to your classes. I am looking forward to building new relationships with all my students. I encourage everyone to try new things while they are here, utilize your resources, and remember that I have your back!”

Brenae Hillard, M.Ed. “I am thrilled to be working with some of you on your journey to degree attainment at USF. You are about to embark on an amazing journey filled with challenges and triumphs along the way. As an academic advisor, I’m excited to get to know you and help you achieve your goals! I’ll see you at orientation!”

ACADEMIC ADVISORS

What an Advisor DOES:

• Registers students for class • Reviews grades and discusses future grade requirements • Helps with goal setting • Discuss majors and minors at USF • Meet with students regarding academic concerns • Provide USF resources and contacts • Provide feedback on cultural situations • Help with language to use in challenging situations

What an Advisor Does NOT Do:

• Change class schedule • Change grades • Change instructors • Review essays • Process documents (transcripts, tests scores, etc.) • Answer questions on immigration • Answer questions on housing • Answer questions on finance • Speak to instructor/professor on student behalf

ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS

Students in the INTO USF undergraduate Pathway program often experience a shock at the differences between high school and university life. High school students often have reminders to do work, and are even reminded when to sleep. Students in the Pathway program are considered to be university students, so they are responsible for their own schedule. This is a big adjustment and many students struggle in their first semester. In the Pathway, you will be expected to:

Check your usf.edu email every day. You must also read and respond to all emails from your advisor, teacher, or any other university staff.

Meet with your Pathway advisor whenever you have

a question or concern. Advisors, not friends, have the best advice about academics.

Study every day! Build time into your schedule so that you study every day, Your advisor can help you build a study schedule. Attend classes and take notes. You can't pass a class if you do not attend.