Our Programs to Enhance Your Success
The University of the District of Columbia's (UDC) Student Success Center (SSC) is dedicated to providing a comprehensive range of resources and services to support students in achieving their academic and career goals. The SSC offers a variety of programs and tools designed to enhance student success, including academic advising, tutoring, career services, financial assistance and technology support.
Student Success Academy
The Student Success Academy is a structured training program on various topics offered 4-6 times a semester, which is aimed at educating university stakeholders on current student success resources and services. The Academy was designed to support the University’s Strategic Plan, the Equity Imperative, which focuses on strategic initiatives that seek to help advance student success by improving retention and completion rates as well as student engagement and progression.
Financial Resources
Emergency Grants: The SSC administers emergency grants to assist students facing unexpected financial hardships. These grants help cover essential expenses such as housing, food, and medical bills, allowing students to focus on their studies without financial stress.
Firebird Retention Grants: These grants are designed to help students who are at risk of dropping out due to financial difficulties. The Firebird Retention Grants provide the necessary funds to keep students enrolled and on the path to graduation.
Technology Support
Success Laptop Loaner Program: The SSC offers a laptop loaner program to ensure that all students have access to the technology they need for their coursework. Students can borrow laptops for the semester, helping to bridge the digital divide and support their academic success.
Career Services
Career Services: The SSC's Career Services department provides a range of resources to help students prepare for their future careers. Services include resume writing assistance, interview preparation, job search strategies, and access to job and internship opportunities through the Handshake platform.
TRIO Programs: TRIO is a set of federally-funded college opportunity programs that motivate and support students from disadvantaged backgrounds in their pursuit of a college degree.
Success Platforms
Navigate: Navigate is a cloud-based student support tool that helps university stakeholders connect with students and uses predictive analytics to alert advisors, staff, and students if a student is veering off the path to graduation. This platform is essential for proactive academic advising and student support.
Degree Works: Degree Works is an online tool that allows students to track their academic progress, plan their courses, and ensure they meet all graduation requirements. This platform provides a clear and organized way for students to stay on top of their academic goals.
Blackboard: Blackboard is the primary learning management system used at UDC. It provides a centralized location for course materials, assignments, grades, and communication between students and instructors. This platform is essential for managing coursework and staying engaged in classes.
Additional Resources
FERPA: The SSC ensures that students' educational records are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This federal law grants students certain rights regarding their education records and ensures their privacy is maintained.
The UDC Student Success Center is committed to providing the support and resources necessary for students to thrive academically and professionally. By leveraging these comprehensive services, students can overcome challenges, achieve their goals and succeed in their academic and career endeavors.