OUR STRATEGY

Student Support Services Monthly Content Areas

Each month, Student Support Services (SSS) organizes events, activities, discussions, and initiatives around a distinct content area. These areas align with federal regulations and are designed to strengthen student persistence, retention, and graduation. Content is classification-specific, meaning participant experiences vary from year to year.

September – The Adjustment

As a new academic year begins, both new and returning students must adjust to new people, routines, challenges, and connections. Everyone’s adjustment process looks different. This month’s focus, The Adjustment, helps participants recondition and prepare for a renewed year On The Hill.

October – Time and Stress Management

College life brings new responsibilities and pressures. Stress often rises during exams, internship applications, or while managing heavy course loads. Many students find their biggest challenge is effective time management. This month emphasizes strategies to manage stress, balance responsibilities, and strengthen persistence.

November – Career Preparation and Exploration

Some students enter college with clear career goals, while others delay career or graduate school planning. Career Preparation and Exploration provides participants with tools to explore options early, make informed decisions, and begin pursuing future opportunities with confidence.

December – Self-Defense (Mind, Body, and Soul)

The holiday season can bring distractions that pull students away from their academic goals. This month’s theme equips participants with strategies to strengthen their mental, physical, and emotional resilience, ensuring they return prepared for the next semester.

January – Financial Literacy

Many students begin college with limited financial knowledge, which can perpetuate generational cycles. This month focuses on building financial understanding and responsibility, including:

  • Budgeting and managing personal finances

  • Building credit wisely

  • Understanding student loans and repayment

  • Exploring savings and investment strategies

February – Leadership Development and Service

A hallmark of historically Black colleges and universities is cultivating leaders committed to service. This month’s focus challenges participants to engage in on-campus and community leadership opportunities that promote growth, responsibility, and civic engagement.

March – Personal Branding and Niche

To stand out in competitive fields, students must be intentional in how they present themselves. Personal Branding and Niche encourages participants to develop a professional identity that supports their aspirations in internships, careers, graduate school, and beyond.

April – Next Chapter (Persistence/Graduation Prep)

Progressing to the next academic year—or into a career or graduate program—requires planning and commitment. This month focuses on preparing participants for their next chapter by providing tools and resources for:

  • Returning for the next academic year

  • Transitioning into the workforce

  • Entering graduate school