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A student’s first year of college can be challenging, whether they are entering right out of high school or are a working adult or military servicemember returning to school after a hiatus. Attending a school that prioritizes providing support for first-year students can be critical in ensuring students’ success.

������Ƶ (UMGC) offers several programs, services, and resources that are tailored to help first-year students thrive and achieve their educational and professional goals.

Success Network Partners offer first-year students a lay of the land

First-year students don’t start their college journey alone at UMGC. Each is paired with a Success Network Partner: an academic success coach, an advisor, a program coordinator, or a Military Education Coordinator (MEC). These roles all serve as a student’s primary point of contact, but can vary in terms of communication methods (in-person, phone, email or Zoom) and engagement frequency. Success Network Partners get to know the students they’re working with and address their concerns.

“Success coaches [and other Success Network Partners] are committed to partnering with students as they navigate their UMGC journey through thought-provoking and supportive conversations, empowering students to make informed degree planning decisions, connecting them with the right resources at the right time, and celebrating the student’s successful milestones and educational goals,” says Aspen McPartland, Director of Student Success in the Office of Student Affairs.

The Success Network Partner and student relationship extends through the student’s entire time at the university. Success Network Partners have check-ins each month to help students build confidence and establish a strong relationship. Coaches also reach out to encourage students to register for recommended classes within their first term.

“Speaking with (my success coach) on our first call was a great experience,” says UMGC student and cybersecurity technology major Asad M. “She was incredibly helpful, offering clear guidance and support right from the start. Her insights made me feel more confident and prepared, and I appreciate her dedication to helping me succeed.”

First-year students who are working with a Success Network Partner, but could use additional support may be referred to a First-Term Coach who can provide them with one-on-one academic counseling to help them overcome their initial struggles. The First-Term Coach will then work with the student’s assigned Success Network Partner to assist learners as they navigate their initial year at UMGC.

“In partnership with the assigned success coach, these First Term Coaches keep students on track by leveraging relationships and creating innovative data-based solutions to meet students where they are,” McPartland says.

“(My coach) helped me get back on track and helped me find balance between work, school and my personal life since this is my first time in school in a long time,” says UMGC student and BS in Health Services Management major Tyra J. “She was amazing and always supportive throughout my first semester.”

More support services for first-year students at UMGC

Support services available for all UMGC students

College can also feel overwhelming at times once classes get going, especially when a student needs additional help with their work — no matter how many years they’re into their academic journey.

In these instances, UMGC offers programs to help keep students on track. These include one-on-one and group tutoring services in different subjects. Meanwhile, the Effective Writing Center (EWC) helps students improve their writing with detailed feedback from experienced writing advisors. The EWC can be an invaluable resource because a solid writing foundation will serve students well for their courses during their time at UMGC — and their career.