KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The University of Tennessee said it is launching two programs to help students succeed while attending college and set them up for success after graduation.
The Student Success Express program is aimed at eliminating barriers to help students meet their academic needs. Starting in September, UT said scholars can go to the Hodges Library Ground Floor and Room G020 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays to meet with a staff member from the Division of Student Success after-hours.
Staff members will be available from 5 p.m. through 8 p.m. to work on a plan of action addressing academic needs. Students can walk in for casual conversations about their academics, but appointments are encouraged for specialized support. Staff will not be able to offer support for issues like financial aid, tuition or academic costs.
The Vol Edge program will also start in January 2025 for sophomores. It is part of the university's goals to build "one of the most robust employment pipelines in the nation." The program will be guided by the Volunteer Experience Committee, offering a variety of different experiences focused on career readiness.
It is a co-curricular program aimed at developing skills and abilities that employers consider valuable, created by the National Association of Colleges and Employers.
Through the program, participants are expected to engage in "at least one meaningful transformative experience" before graduation, which can include programs like internships or global learning. They will also get professional feedback about their strengths and skills, and will get practice "telling their stories."
UT said scholars will not be required to participate in the program, but the university hopes will help students get ahead in the job market.
