Introduction to Integrating Student Supports
For many students, stepping onto a college campus for the first time is an intimidating experience filled with processes, people, and procedures that aren’t familiar. Students who are new to college and/or are first generation college students find that employees at the college are sometimes speaking a new language:
“You need to complete the FAFSA before I can help you. Go to CCCApply and it will lead you to FAFSA. Then come back.”
FAFSA? CCCApply? New students struggle with our language and struggle with knowing how to get help.
What if community colleges operated with a focus on ensuring students get connected and find what they need? What if when a student walked through the door, our first effort was to make them feel welcome and comfortable. What if we never sent them away to look for something somewhere on campus. What if we took ownership of not only providing the services to students, but also making sure they get them when they need them? Enter the concept of integrating student supports to the student journey:
What does integrated student supports look like?
A friendly point of contact to help students navigate the institutions systems
A customized approach to supporting students
A proactive network of supports that meet students where they are
Relevant and timely support to assist students from entry to exit
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*This guide was developed by Career Ladders Project with funding from the California Community College Chancellor’s Office.