Through a peer-to-peer model of interaction and academic support, the Academic Success Center strives to develop confident, equipped, and engaged learners within the university. Focusing our efforts on growth and development of students, faculty, and staff, the ASC utilizes diverse and innovative strategies which not only promote the intellectual pursuits of all community members, but also provides systemic support which enhances retention at the university. Providing a patient, positive, and approachable atmosphere for all community members--and clients of the ASC--nurtures access to services which empower and encourage individuals to reach their full potential as learners, staff members, and professionals at ULV.
Learning Centered: Every collaboration with faculty, staff, and students; professional development opportunity offered; task completed; decision made; and conversation will serve the goal of nurturing the skills needed for each student to feel confident, acquire knowledge, pursue wellness, and succeed throughout the course of their life.
Innovative: Data-driven decisions serve as the foundation of efforts to challenge the status quo, collaborate across disciplines, and create new programs and strategies to meet the unique needs of each student we serve and prepare those students to proceed with curiosity and ingenuity.
Outcome Focused: Long-term impact on student success and continuous assessment of our efforts are the foundations of all programs and processes. Setting aside thoughts of the way it has always been done and embracing mistakes empowers all members of the department to lean into the learning curve, improve processes, and discover new more effective paths toward the realization of the department’s vision.
Community Minded: The different ways we experience the world are an asset to the community. All are encouraged to bring their authentic selves to the center—as both employees and learners. Within our walls, everyone is important, safe, accepted, and valued.
Equitable: The university was not designed to support the growth and development of everyone. Therefore, we acknowledge the contribution of unique cultural perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds to our collective knowledge; empower stakeholders to build on the richness of their contribution; and actively combat educational inequity (and all other forms of inequity).
The Academic Success Center strives to meet the following student learning outcomes in all of our efforts and interactions with the ULV community:
Increased confidence
Enhanced critical thinking skills
Knowledge of available resources/feeling supported in one’s efforts
Growth and understanding of one’s self as a learner
ASC Student Initiatives Specialists (SISs) comprise the student leadership team of the Academic Success Center and assist in coordinating, supporting, and implementing academic initiatives from the ASC, including, but not limited to, providing leadership and mentorship for student employees, as well as assisting in the development of La Verne community members. SISs work together with their student employee teammates to carry out and enhance all functions of the ASC. You will often see SISs in the ASC space, lending support to employees, students, and professional staff. Their goal is truly to enhance the experience of all students and student employees in the ASC, acting as a liaison with professional staff.
ASC Tutors are undergraduate or graduate students at ULV who have a minimum gpa of 3.25, are faculty recommended, and have expertise in the areas they tutor. They provide one-on-one appointments, group sessions, and/or drop-in tutoring where students can stop in for quick questions and support. They participate in weekly trainings throughout the academic year to learn more about their content areas as well as strategies to make the tutoring experience not only helpful, but also encouraging and enjoyable. They report that their favorite part of working with students is watching their growth and excitement when they have those lightbulb moments and say to themselves, "I CAN do this!"
ASC Academic Coaches are undergraduate or graduate students at ULV who focus on the holistic student and provide support for individuals, not solely their academics. Coaches assist with enhancing academic habits, finding balance among obligations, long-term planning and goal-setting, managing academic anxiety, and achieving personal and academic success. They participate in weekly training sessions which equip them to create coaching experiences that serve as learning opportunities while also boosting students' confidence. Academic Coaches report their favorite part of working with students is the relationship they are able to build over a longer period of time; this relationship allows them to really get to know the student, their passions and interests, and their goals. They appreciate assisting students with meeting their goals and love when students recognize their own progress!
ASC Promotions Coordinators work to strengthen the connection among the ASC and the campus community. Promotions Coordinators develop displays, campaigns, and social media activity in order to bring awareness to ULV students and clients regarding available supports within the ASC. The campus community will interact with ASC Promotions Coordinators at campus-wide and departmental events, as well as during class visits and other initiatives aimed at developing relationships with the campus community. ASC Promotions Coordinators enjoy using their creativity to bring awareness and interaction to the campus community, and they look forward to seeing you at various events throughout the academic year!
ASC Office Assistants work to provide an approachable, nurturing environment within the Academic Success Center. Their goal is to ensure all visitors feel welcomed, supported, and aware of ASC services provided for the campus community. During their shifts, Office Assistants manage the ASC email account, answer the phone, ensure all appointments are running smoothly, and perform special projects such as decorating the ASC space, organizing supplies, performing class visits, and anything surrounding creating a positive atmosphere. Office Assistants report they love interacting with ASC student staff, using their creativity while at work, and ensuring that all students have a great experience when they come to the ASC!