JUMP START PROGRAM
This program is an optional program for incoming freshmen that is specifically designed to assist first year students in their academic endeavors at Western State College. There are many factors that can affect both learning and academic performance, including personal problems, time and stress management issues, poor study habits, or underutilizing academic services on campus. Through the JUMP START Program, students receive assistance in examining the factors that contributed to their success thus enabling them to take steps toward academic achievement.
Each student is assigned a Mentor who is a staff member at Western State College. The JUMP START student will meet with his/her Mentor individually on a regular basis throughout their first semester. A Learning Contract will be signed by both the Mentor and the student. In the Learning Contract, expectations for the learning experience for both the Mentor and the student will be agreed upon. The contract may include: 1) a journaling component; 2) attending “Academic Improvement Workshops” or “Student Success Seminars” 3) developing structured and planned goals; 3) building positive relationships with faculty and other staff members at Western State College; 4) other structured developmental activities agreed upon by the Mentor and the student.
Program Goals:
- To involve students in an involvement program consisting of personalized advising and counseling, requiring in-depth self-examination by the students.
- To provide support for the student for future academic success
- To assist in the retention and development of academically vulnerable students