Jumpstart

Preparing new students for success

"I was excited, nervous, confident, and hesitant at the same time."

For new students, college is uncharted territory. And if you feel a bit weary at the thought of taking your first midterm, you're not alone. Junior Abbie McGuire can definitely relate to the uncertainty that many new students experience.

"I was excited, nervous, confident, and hesitant at the same time," laughs Abbie, a marketing, psychology, and leadership major in the class of 2008, recalling her first semester. "When it came to classes, I just didn't know what to expect."

A day in the life of Abbie Abbie McGuire discovered quickly that her University of Minnesota courses took an energetic, hands-on approach to learning. Now, she's engaged in coursework that takes her outside the classroom--making a difference in Twin Cities communities and participating in real-world research. For example, Abbie has: Explored St. Paul's Rondo neighborhood and developed a landscape design that reflects the area's vibrant culture and history. Participated in market research conducted by students at the Carlson School of Management. Learned about leadership and working in teams by participating in a scavenger hunt on campus.

After a few semesters, Abbie found herself immersed in courses where she spent time outside the classroom, engaged in community projects and real-world research. "While I loved the exciting, energetic coursework, it did take some time for me to adjust to the more active and hands-on style of learning," she says.

Students like Abbie can learn what to expect and discover how succeed in college courses at Jumpstart, a half-day University of Minnesota program for incoming freshmen. Active learning is just one of the topics presented at Jumpstart, says Scott Slattery, staff psychologist and director of Student Academic Success Services, who coordinates the program.

"We give students strategies and skills that will help them in college coursework, such as reading, writing, and time management," says Scott. Through mini-workshops, group activities, and personal exercises, students explore active learning skills like assertiveness and communication, campus involvement, choosing a major, goal-setting, and test- and note-taking.

"Jumpstart helps students learn about things they can't anticipate in college...if you have an academic toolbox, it's about putting the right tools in the box," says Scott. "That's what we try to do. We help students anticipate transitional difficulties and raise awareness."

Jumpstart is just one of the great opportunities the University of Minnesota provides for students through Student Academic Success Services (SASS). SASS provides one-on-one learning support and free workshops on topics such as test preparation, study skills, overcoming procrastination, time and stress management, and finding balance in college life.

Want to find out how you can prepare for college success? Click here to learn more about how Student Academic Success Services can support your academic and personal goals at the University of Minnesota!

-Chelsy Quiram

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