University of Nebraska at Kearney
Student Affairs and Activities

1994-96 UNK Undergraduate Catalo

Student Support Services

Student Support Services provides assistance for students who traditionally have not participated fully in higher education. The main goal of the program is to retain and graduate students who may require more individual attention than the general student population. Federal eligibility guidelines include students who are economically disadvantaged, students who are first generation (neither parent has completed a four-year college degree), learning or physically challenged students, and students with a combination of these criteria.

After these students are identified, Student Support Services offers a variety of programs to promote achievement, including a mentoring program led by faculty and professional staff and a retention services program. Summer and fall orientation programs are provided to heighten student awareness of the support service. The Student Support Services staff teaches tailor-made sections of the University Foundations class in addition to providing one-on-one assistance to students meeting the federal criteria. The students are also assisted with exploring and applying to Graduate Schools to continue their studies.

The Student Support Services program is funded by a TRIO Grant and the office is located in the Memorial Student Affairs Building.

After skills assessment, the students are referred to tutorial services or peer counseling. Secondary counseling and advising are provided along with information and support for financial assistance. Academic programs, cultural opportunities, and involvement in campus activities are also emphasized.