Academic Support

All too often, students get to college and realize that they weren’t as prepared as they thought they were. Good grades in high school don’t always indicate how well a student will perform academically in college.

Academic Support offers a course for incoming freshmen, entitled University 101 (SUNV 101: The Student in the University). This three hour elective course, which focuses solely on freshman success, will provide you with the tools and resources you need to make a smooth transition into college. It will address topics such as time management, study skills, career exploration, library skills, self awareness, and service learning as well as educating students about USC Upstate and our campus resources. Readings, assignments, and discussions for this course will focus on general freshman transition issues. Fun and engaging activities are also planned to provide a hands-on learning environment for students. (Please note: although almost all majors accept this course as elective credit, please check with your intended major departmental office if you have any questions.)

University 101 is an important introduction to your college experience. It will familiarize you with some of the necessary skills needed to accomplish your goal of matriculation and graduation from USC Upstate. University 101 provides both an introduction to the nature of college education and a general orientation to the functions and resources of the college. Thus, it helps first year students adjust to college, develop a better understanding of the learning process and acquire basic academic survival skills. The course provides a support group for students in the critical first year by examining common issues in a less formal atmosphere than traditional courses.

Take advantage of the opportunity to get the guidance and support you need to help make this adjustment as smooth as possible. Students who complete University 101 their first semester of their freshman year achieve higher GPA’s on average than those who don’t. Recent data also shows that students who complete University 101 that first semester persist into their sophomore year and maintain their academic scholarships at higher rates on average than their counterparts. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by – your success is important and this course will afford you the head start you need on your path to college success!

For questions about the University 101 course or about securing a spot, please contact Susannah Waldrop, director of the Student Success Center, at (864) 503-5414.

Supplemental Instruction is a series of peer-led weekly review sessions for students taking historically difficult courses. SI is available for all students who want to enhance their understanding of course material and improve their grades. The SI sessions offer students a structured environment where, working collaboratively, they can expect to engage with the coursework, think critically about it, and ultimately predict test questions. Supplemental Instruction gives students the opportunity to network with their peers and develop their study skills, all while having fun. If that’s not enough, on average, students who attend SI on a regular basis earn a final letter grade that is ½ to 1 full letter grade higher!

Individual meetings at Academic Support are available by appointment. To schedule an appointment, simply complete the Appointment Request Form or call us at 864-503-5392.