It Takes a
PREPARING STUDENTS FOR SUCCESS BY KATIE (PAXSON) HAMMAKER ’93
Each year, students from all walks of life come to Shippensburg University to begin or continue their Helping them succeed has always college journey. been a priority, but a recent initiative established by President Laurie A. Carter has inspired a new campus-wide approach to achieving this goal. “Ship has always been there for the students, but there is a very intentional direction that we are headed in to ensure that we meet the needs of all of our students and their diverse backgrounds,” said Rochelle D. Plummer ’12, director of the new Office for Students First. Realizing that each student’s needs are unique, Ship now offers a variety of new or redesigned services to support them. But, the focus extends beyond academic success. The campus is taking a more holistic approach to promote the emotional, mental, and overall well-being of students.
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SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE
Addressing First-Gen Needs Nearly 50 percent of the students in Ship’s incoming fall class are first-generation, or the first in their immediate family to attend college. Recognizing the unique needs of this group, Ship opened the Office for Students First in January. Headed by Plummer, the center offers support and services specific to this population. According to research, first-generation students may lack a general knowledge of the college process and struggle with basic academic jargon. While their parents can
offer moral support, they cannot always provide the practical knowledge needed to navigate campus life. Many first-gen students worry that they don’t belong at college. They also can experience anxiety and guilt about leaving home. According to Plummer, some firstgen students care for younger siblings or contribute to family income. What’s more, first-gen students are less likely to seek assistance. Having been a first-generation student, Plummer remembers struggling with self-doubt and hesitating to ask questions in college.
