Now that I’m preparing to graduate at the end of spring 2021, I have a newfound sense of clarity about higher education. There are so many resources available to support students and all we have to do to access them is reach out.
Every graduate is different, but there’s always lessons to be learned when we think critically about our experiences and the decisions we make. The ASC Peer Mentor team took some time to share what they wish they knew at the beginning of their undergraduate career.
Cassidy Lefevre: Don’t be afraid to use campus resources.
There are so many resources available to students, but fear often prevents them from reaching out. Whether they need access to math tutors or writing assistance, UNLV has services in place to ensure that students are able to connect with the support they need.
We never know if someone might reach out for support, but knowing about campus resources may make a difference in our response.
Syeda Jamshed: Be brave enough to get involved early on; it’s all a learning experience.
Getting involved isn’t about building a resume, it’s about investing time in yourself and your passions. At the beginning of Jamshed’s undergraduate career, she held back from joining organizations for which she didn’t feel qualified.
Despite joining a number of them later on, Jamshed still expressed some regret about holding herself back out of fear. She explained, “We all slip and fall, none of us are perfect leaders, and none of us are perfect people, so engage in extracurricular activities early on because they give you chance to grow.”
There are so many different organizations on campus, so explore your interest and challenge yourself to grow in an environment where everybody is learning. Jamshed wished that she brave enough to pursue her goals early on, but she’s confident that anytime is a good place to start once you’re ready.
Raisa Kabir: It’s okay to change your major.
Ahead of her graduation, Kabir shared that it’s okay to change your major. There’s no rule that says students have to pick correctly the first time, however, a lot of people feel stuck after they start taking classes.
Degree sheets can be tricky and starting over may seem scary, but that doesn’t mean there’s not a route for students to follow. If a student is torn, connecting with an advisor to talk about future goals could reveal a path they might not have considered.
Ismaray Fernandez: Sometimes, flexible goals can lead to success.
It’s important to remind yourself that your journey is never comparable to someone else’s. Even though there are a lot of people who finish their undergraduate degree in four years, there are a significant number of people who don’t. No matter how long it takes to finish, your educational experience is no more or no less important. While it's encouraged to follow the "15 to Finish" guideline, sometimes, we can be more successful in our academic performance by allowing ourselves a little more time.
Fernandez explained, “Finishing in more than four years isn’t the worst thing in the world. Really taking the time to explore my options and career fields and interest may be a valuable thing.” So slow down and know that there’s no shame in needing more time to complete your undergrad. What matters most is that you’re able to cultivate a college experience that ensures you’re prepared to move on to the next level of your life.
Andy Larsen: Attend Office Hours.
Helping yourself isn’t always a realistic option. Larsen recalled his freshman year math class where he struggled with his work, but he didn’t know any tricks to help him succeed. Eventually, the semester ended and he didn’t receive the grade he wanted.
The following semester, Larsen took a statistics class, but he worried about experiencing the same struggles. After connecting with a friend for suggestions, he tried going to his professor’s office hours to get tips about succeeding on the tests and he says it “worked out perfectly.”
Sometimes, the most realistic thing someone can do is trust that voicing their concerns will find them the support they need. Every professor has office hours, so drop in and share your questions. Looking back, Larsen wished he had done the same with his math class because it would have made his life easier.
Michael Spencer: Say thank you more often.
I was raised to say please and thank you whenever someone did anything for me. As a child, I thought these phrases were meant to signify exchanges, but they’re so much more than that. Saying thank you is an expression of gratitude and UNLV has given me so much for which to be grateful.
I have had excellent professors, I’ve made amazing friends and I have been exposed to so many opportunities that I’ve lost count. I wish I could go back and thank everyone who has helped me along the way because there’s no way I could have graduated on my own.
My undergraduate career has been full of challenges, but I never met an obstacle without a UNLV student or staff member waiting in the wings to help. It has been a privilege to work with so many amazing people because their influence allowed me to further myself in so many different ways. If I had always known the influence the support of others would have had on my college experience, I would ensure every single person knew how appreciative I was for their service.
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- Michael Schwob, ASC Tutor, was awarded the NSHE Regents Undergraduate Student Award.
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Under the leadership of Dr. Dan Gianoutsos and Cheyenne Rogers, the ASC's Academic Success Coaching Program was awarded $3,500 from the MSI Student Council for the Academic Success Coaching Summer Series. This program will provide eight virtual workshops that are traditionally only offered during the academic year over Summer 2021.
- Cassandra Davidson-Bryant, Administrative Assistant for the Dean's Office, will be featured in the April newsletter of the UNLV Women's Council, which is celebrating Administrative Professionals Day.
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Cheyenne Rogers, Assistant Director of Academic Transitions and Learning Support, is a 2021 recipient of the UNLV Mission Fulfillment Grant of $1,500 for the proposal, Pathways to Graduation: Engaging Former Major Pathways Students.
- Dr. Dan Gianoutsos, Senior Associate Dean, will be presenting a free webinar entitled, "Building a Sense of Community Online," as part of McGraw-Hill's Virtual Professional Development Series for First-Year Educators on Friday, April 2nd.
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STUDENT & STAFF SPOTLIGHTS |
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Dulce Rebuli
UNLV Freshman
Major Pathway - Biology
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Why did you choose to come to UNLV?
I had originally planned to go to a big school in California, but my brother graduated and has his masters from UNLV. He told me that the environment would be better and that it would be closer to home. UNLV was also the #1 in diversity. I also wouldn’t want to miss the closeness with friends here at UNLV. It’s a beautiful university - I love the library! It’s such a good sense of community and I don’t think I would have had the same experience at a big CA school.
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What ASC services have you used since being at UNLV? How would you describe those experiences?
I was in COLA 100E with Dr. Emily Shreve and that class was the best. The class set us up for everything - all of the groundwork for choosing a major. I was out of school for two years and it was a good class to get back in the groove. I’d really like to thank Dr. Shreve for making it accessible while the class was online during the pandemic.
I’ve also met with my Advisor, Jaquee deJesus. Those meetings help prepare me for classes the next semester. Meeting with an advisor really makes such a difference - I sure feel a sense of relief afterwards, we get such good advice.
I’ve also gone to math tutoring. Before, I was kind of shy asking for help, but once you get into UNLV, the tutors make it okay to be able to ask for help. You don’t feel shy asking. I also want to start coaching. I didn't really have a good idea about what it was, but I received a phone call about two days ago and they mentioned coaching, so I think I’ll try it.
What is the best piece of advice you have been given so far at UNLV?
It was actually from a former teacher, Miss Gwen Dement (Durango High School, Geology teacher). She said to be yourself in everything you do. Whether it’s friendship or school or work, just every aspect. Be yourself because that will influence who you’ll end up being around. You can really see who is there for you - who likes you for you.
Who is a person in your life that has been extremely influential? Why?
My little sister Angel. She is a freshman here as well. No other person pushes me as hard as she does. She’s tremendous. She has a full time job as an EMT for AMR and goes to school full time. She pushes me to do great things. She’s my best friend. Sometimes when I don’t want to go to school or the library, she’ll tell me we don’t have a choice. I wouldn’t have nearly as much motivation as I do now without her. I look up to her!
What has been your favorite class at UNLV so far? Why?
I’d have to say COLA 100E. During the course of the pandemic, that class was the only one that was taken as seriously as it could be. It was the only class where I made friends. With classes all online, you lose some of the sense of connection. We had a good sense of community in that class. I wasn’t afraid to email a classmate. I missed having a peer next to me in class, but Dr. Shreve made the class not feel so alone.
What’s one good thing that you’ve learned or discovered as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic?
There were two really important things that came out of the pandemic. First, it’s okay - solitude - and being by yourself. Before the pandemic, I was afraid to go and do things by myself. Now, it’s okay to go to the library by myself, it’s okay to go to the store by yourself. You have to learn to be okay by being by myself. It’s fine to go places alone - no one really cares.
The second thing is that everything will be okay. No matter what happens, everything will be okay. This week is hefty for midterms and I just keep repeating to myself that everything will be okay.
Where do you hope to see yourself in 10 years?
I’m 20 right now and in ten years, I’ll be 30. Ten years ago, I was 10. It’s weird to think about! In 10 years, I hope to be making policies for the environment. I hope I have a family. In my dream career, I want to be an environmental lawyer - and I want a family.
What is something on your personal bucket list?
I would like to meet and pet a penguin. They are my favorite animals. Just touching/petting them on the head. They are so cute!
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Coordinator for Student-Athlete Academic Services
What led you to work at UNLV?
Overall, I really fell in love with campus. The location was a plus. Coming from California, I could go home and visit my family. Also the diversity on campus. During my interview, meeting the people I work with, I knew UNLV was going to be a home away from home.
Your official job title is “Coordinator for Student-Athlete Academic Services.” What are some of your job responsibilities?
The largest part of my job is monitoring the academic eligibility of the student-athletes, for Men’s Soccer and Volleyball. I also work with coaches on recruiting and meeting with prospective student-athletes. The other part of my job is overseeing tutoring for the student-athletes, including hiring and training the tutors. I also oversee, including hiring and training, the two graduate assistants for our department.
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What is your favorite part about your job here at UNLV?
Definitely the students. I don’t know if it’s the environment or what, but I get to see them all grow. I keep in touch with them after they graduate. It’s not just students from Las Vegas either. They are from all over - from Nevada to even internationally.
I also really love the campus. When it’s not too hot or too cold, it’s really nice and peaceful to walk around. People don’t realize how many trees we have, even though we’re a few blocks away from the Strip. It really feels nice in hot weather.
What has been challenging with advising virtually compared with in-person?
A lot of things did transition well to online. I think the hardest was building relationships with the students. I have worked with freshmen and transfers that started in the Fall, and because of the timing, I still haven’t interacted with them in person. I feel like they don’t know exactly what our office is like, what we do. That has been a challenge.
What tip do you give to your student-athletes that you would also recommend for all UNLV students?
Use your resources! I feel like I sound like a broken record, but use your resources. And not just me, but there are so many things on campus that can help. Go to your professors. Go to Tutoring, the Math Learning Center, Academic Success Workshops. All of these things are free. I always stress that there are these resources available.
If you could give your younger self some advice, what would that be?
To use your resources…to an extent. As a first-generation college student, I was so focused on graduating, choosing a major, I just kind of went along with it so I could get finished and help my family out. Looking back, no one was putting that pressure on me but myself. I would tell myself to enjoy college, to take the time before graduating, before you have to get out in the real world.
If you weren’t working at UNLV, what do you think you’d be doing?
I always loved athletics and I’m passionate about sports and education. During the pandemic, I’ve gotten into learning how to code and into web development. So, maybe I’d be into something in tech. That was something that I’ve never really thought of before, even during college.
What would you say is a silver lining of the Covid-19 pandemic?
This is just the first year that I’ve really been able to slow down. I went to college for four years, then got my masters in two years, and went right to work full time. The day-to-day waking up, commuting, it just slowed down a bit. It’s really put everything back into perspective. And, I got a dog - a poodle mix, named Mango.
What is one thing you love to do in your free time?
I really enjoy going for walks, especially when the weather is nice. Now, we can take Mango out to walk and smell things. After I’m done with work for the day, I can head outside without a commute. It’s another part of the silver lining.
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ASC Spring 2021 Services
The ASC building is open during the following hours of operation:
Monday - Friday
8 AM - 5 PM
Representatives are available to answer questions at
702-895-3177 during normal business hours.
COVID-19 Updates:
In response to Nevada and UNLV guidance regarding the COVID-19 pandemic,
the ASC is following all guidelines, including social distancing measures.
Masks are required.
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Academic Success Coaching
Virtual Workshops
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Ask for Directions: How to Communicate Effectively (April 5, 6, 7)
Fuel Up: Revisiting Goals & Taking Care of Yourself (April 12, 13, 14)
Enjoy Your Trip: How to Manage Your Money
(April 19, 20, 21)
You Have Arrived: How to End the Semester Strong (April 26, 27, 28)
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Save the Date - Virtual ASC Honors Ceremony:
Wednesday, 4/7, at 3 p.m.
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The ceremony recognizes recipients of ASC faculty, staff, and student awards as well as students who have received scholarships and placed on the Dean's Honors List. Due to the pandemic, this year's event will be virtual.
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Keep the Motivation...
The period between Spring Break and Final Exams is sometimes the most difficult period of the Spring semester for maintaining motivation. Warm weather, colorful flowers, and longer days (otherwise known as "Spring Fever") make us yearn to be outdoors and having fun instead of staying inside and studying.
Finishing the semester strong and maintaining your motivation is essential for success in college. It is helpful to remind yourself of a few simple essentials (listed below) can help keep your motivation up and thriving in the weeks leading up to exams.
Even with these essentials in mind, sometimes it is also good to remember that allowing yourself a little grace or forgiveness can go a long way. For example, one afternoon outside having fun is not alone going to ruin your future plans. Maintaining overall, well-balanced motivation is what counts.
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Essentials for Staying Strong After Spring Break: |
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Positive Attitude - Keeping a positive mindset will have a huge impact on your success. Eliminate any negative self talk.
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Steady Routine - Studying at the same time and same place can give you a boost. Keep up with your good study habits to finish strong. Now is the perfect time to eliminate those not-so-helpful habits.
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Straight priorities - Focus on the goals and objectives that you set earlier in the semester. Keep your eye on the prize!
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Understanding Companions - Surround yourself with supportive friends and family. A little encouragement from others can go a long way to support you in college journey.
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Intentional Self-Care - Remember to take care of your physical and mental health. If you aren't well, focusing on school will be difficult. Schedule time to eat healthy food, exercise, and sleep.
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Be sure to follow the ASC on Social Media for additional tips! |
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Hixson-Lied Success Scholarship Program:
Applications Open Now! LAST CHANCE: 4/19/2021
Thousands of students across Nevada may never have the opportunity to earn a college degree primarily because of economic and academic challenges, and there are very few programs in place to help these students. The UNLV Hixson-Lied Success Scholars Program helps make a difference in the lives of these students by providing both financial and academic support through the ASC.
The program provides students:
- A scholarship in the amount of $1,250 per semester ($2,500 per year) for up to eight semesters.
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Academic Success Coaching sessions.
- The ability to make a difference through serving peers and giving back to UNLV.
- Access to the Hixson-Lied Success Scholars Newsletter, a monthly newsletter created by the scholars.
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ASC Dean's Award Scholarship Opening Soon!
Submit applications by 6/4/2021.
The ASC provides the Dean's Award Scholarship for students in the Exploring major.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Be a continuing UNLV student with less than 60 earned credits
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Be declared in the Exploring major
- Be enrolled as a full time student for the first semester of the scholarship
- Have a cumulative UNLV GPA of 2.00 or higher
- Submit a 500-750 word essay in response to an essay prompt.
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HACU to Accept Applications for Southwest Airlines ¡Lánzate! Take Off! Travel Program, March 16 - April 30, 2021
Through this national initiative, HACU and Southwest Airlines will award roundtrip flights to undergraduate and graduate students across the country who travel at least 200 miles from home to pursue a higher education and meet the eligibility criteria, including the submission of a required essay. Selected students receive tickets for use to travel between home and college or university.
“The ¡Lánzate! travel awards have provided many college students a way to visit their families when they may not have otherwise had the financial means to do so,” said HACU President and CEO Antonio R. Flores. “This past year, the pandemic has caused a financial strain on many families, and we are grateful to Southwest Airlines for their ongoing support of college students.”
For detailed guidelines, eligibility requirements and to apply online, click here.
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Check With Your Colleges for Scholarship Opportunities!
Spring is the time when many applications for college scholarships become available. Be sure to visit your College's website as well as the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships website for additional scholarship opportunities.
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