Academic Success Series launched to help students excel

The MTSU Office of Student Success recently launched a series of workshops aimed at providing students with practical steps to successfully obtain that valuable college degree.

Click the image to learn more about MTSU’s efforts to enhance student success.

The Academic Success Series will be held inside the James E. Walker Library over the next few months; a kickoff session on how to properly use the library was held Feb. 11. Sessions address topics ranging from thinking critically to preparing for finals.

All sessions begin at 4:30 p.m. at Walker Library, and all sessions will be held in Room 446 except the April 1 session, which will be held in Room 272.

No registration is required, but seating is limited.

Vincent Windrow

“The Academic Success Series is a great way for all types of students to receive practical ideas and strategies about being successful students. While aimed at freshmen, these events are great for all students,” said Vincent Windrow, interim assistant vice provost for student success and a presenter at some of the workshops.

“For example, sometimes even juniors need fine-tuning in terms of time management.”

Last fall, MTSU unveiled a Quest for Student Success initiative to eliminate barriers to student success and boost retention and graduation rates. The university named two administrators to interim roles to oversee reforms: University College Dean Mike Boyle as interim vice provost for student success and Windrow as interim assistant vice provost.

“Not only is the information practical but it is also is plainly delivered by a diverse lineup of presenters,” Windrow said. “Faculty, staff and administrators help give the series a well-rounded flavor. In fact, student success here at MTSU requires that everyone on campus have a hand in helping students achieve.”

Workshops include:

Tuesday, Feb. 11: “How to use the MTSU library,” presented by Kristen West, associate professor of reference and instruction for Walker Library.
Tuesday, Feb. 18: “How to give a winning presentation,” presented by Windrow.
Tuesday, Feb. 25: “How to think critically,” presented by Hilary Stallings, manager for recruitment and resources for the MTSU College of Liberal Arts.
Tuesday, March 4: “How to relax, chill and still be a successful student,” presented by Brittany Francis, student intern in the Health, Wellness and Recreation Center.
Tuesday, March 25: “How to choose the right major,” presented by Windrow.
Tuesday, April 1: “How to use your academic advisor” presented by Travis Tipton, academic adviser in the College of Basic and Applied Sciences, in library Room 272.
Tuesday, April 22: “How to prepare for finals,” presented by Eric Miller, academic adviser in the University College Advising Center.
Wednesday, April 23: “How to prepare for finals” presented by Miller.