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СÓÅÊÓÆµampa Recognized for First-Gen Support
СÓÅÊÓÆµ is recognized as one of 77 universities accepted into the 2020-2021 cohort of First-Gen Forward institutions.
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The Success Scholars program is a support program for first-generation and Pell-eligible college students.
Being first-generation is a proud accomplishment, and we also recognize the determination and resilience demonstrated by students who are Pell-eligible as they pursue a college education. A strong support system can make a meaningful difference in how students navigate the changes and challenges of the college experience and achieve success at СÓÅÊÓÆµampa. Success Scholars celebrates the strengths, perspectives, and experiences that first-generation and Pell-eligible students bring to campus, and we look forward to supporting them as they become Spartans and progress toward graduation.
This program, which evolved from the grant-funded Helios Scholars program, provides social, academic, and financial support to assist students in their adjustment to campus life and continued success throughout their college journey. Students who opt in to the program during their first semester at СÓÅÊÓÆµampa will engage in social activities, workshops, academic support sessions, service opportunities, and regular contact with peer mentors. Through intentional community-building and proactive support, Success Scholars helps students strengthen their sense of belonging, connect to campus resources, and develop the skills and confidence needed to thrive at СÓÅÊÓÆµampa and beyond.
The Success Scholars program is recognized as a First-Gen Forward institution by theÌý Ìýfor its commitment to advancing first-generation student outcomes.
Mission:
The mission of the Success Scholars program is to provide proactive support and co-curricular engagement to encourage retention and graduation from СÓÅÊÓÆµampa.
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- Ensure first-generation students graduate at or above the institution's general graduation rate.
- Foster a supportive community where students can engage their interests, build confidence and connect authentically within the СÓÅÊÓÆµampa community.
- Be a premier peer mentoring program that develops interpersonal confidence in both mentees and mentors while enhancing academic skills and preparing for life after СÓÅÊÓÆµampa.
Goals:
Increase retention and success by supporting students as they transition to and navigate the University of Tampa. This will be achieved through access to academic resources, intentional interventions, community building, goal setting and data tracking and analysis.
Objectives:
- Provide support and resources to help students adjust and thrive academically at СÓÅÊÓÆµampa.
- Offer mentoring support to promote personal and academic growth.
- Introduce students to resources available in the Tampa Bay area.
- Encourage proactive goal setting and planning through one-on-one PLAN (Personal Leadership and Academic Navigation) Meetings.
- Support students in building a peer community at СÓÅÊÓÆµampa.
- Foster team building and leadership development among mentors.
The Success Scholars Program offers a range of financial support active Scholars, helping to alleviate financial barriers and enhance academic success. Each semester, students can apply to receive financial assistance towards textbooks and school supplies, and borrow high-priced calculators for math, science, or financial courses.ÌýÌý
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Additionally, eligible scholars enrolled in summer classes may receive summer grants to support their continued education.Ìý Beyond textbook and summer funding, the program also assists students with experiential opportunities through on-campus Work-Study positions to gain valuable work experience and participation in Alternative Break programs, allowing students to engage in community service and experiential learning without financial strain.Ìý
Peer mentoring is a vital component of the Success Scholars experience, providing personalized support and guidance as students navigate the transition into the college experience and beyond. First-Year and Second-year Success Scholars are paired with dedicated undergraduate peer mentors known as SPEARs (Spartan Peers Educating About Resources), who are trained to offer insights, encouragement, practical advice, and social support.Ìý Upper-class students are paired with graduate-levelÌýSuccess Champions who provide support and guidance that focuses on the transition to life after СÓÅÊÓÆµampa.Ìý Through one-on-one PLAN (Personal Leadership and Academic Navigation) Meetings, they connect Success Scholars to campus resources, academic support, and leadership opportunities while sharing their own stories of growth and success. These mentors play an essential role in building a culture of support and resilience, helping students thrive both inside and outside the classroom.Ìý
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Are you interested in serving as a SPEAR or graduate student worker to students in the Success Scholars program? We hire SPEARs every fall and spring semester, so be sure to check  .Ìý