Communications
Supporting Student Success: Academic Enrichment Advising at USF
The University of South Florida's Academic Enrichment unit plays an important role in student retention and success by offering targeted advising services. The unit’s advising focuses on three key areas: major re-selection, the exploratory curriculum, and advising for the Bachelor of General Studies and Bachelor of Science in Applied Sciences programs. These tailored advising efforts help students navigate their academic journeys, overcome challenges, and achieve their goals.
Major Re-selection Advising
USF offers major re-selection advising for students who discover their current major
isn’t the right fit. Each college at USF establishes criteria for academic progression
within its programs, ensuring students meet benchmarks for timely graduation. When
students do not meet these criteria, they may be referred or required to visit a re-selection
advisor, who helps identify an alternative major aligned with their interests and
goals. The advisor evaluates the student’s completed coursework, ensuring as much
of it as possible applies to the new program, minimizing disruptions to their progress.
Beyond academic guidance, re-selection advisors connect students with university resources
to support their transition, including new program advisors and relevant support services.
“I am extremely thrilled to share with you that I have successfully declared my major as computer science engineering. I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support and guidance you have provided throughout this process. Your assistance has played a pivotal role in my academic journey, and I truly believe I wouldn’t have navigated through it as smoothly without your invaluable input.
Jasmin, a sophomore student.
Advising for Degree Programs
The Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) and the Bachelor of Science in Applied Sciences
(BSAS) are designed for non-traditional students seeking flexible pathways to complete
their degrees. Advising for these programs is uniquely positioned to meet the needs
of non-traditional students with diverse academic and professional backgrounds. Advisors
collaborate with students to assess prior coursework, transfer credits, and life experiences
that may apply toward degree requirements. They provide tailored academic plans that
align with students' career goals while accommodating their unique circumstances,
such as work or family commitments. This personalized support ensures students stay
on track to graduate, enhances their overall academic experience, and prepares them
for their next career move.
Academic Courses
In addition to advising, the Academic Enrichment team is responsible for the curriculum, instruction, and administration of courses offered through the Office of Undergraduate Studies. UGS schedules over 100 courses each academic year, including IDS2378 Foundations of Interdisciplinary Knowledge and Inquiry and courses in the Leadership Studies minor. These courses are primarily taught by adjunct instructors, with typically over 100 adjunct instructors employed by UGS each academic year. Assessments are key to improving the experiences for both instructors and students. The team assesses teaching effectiveness, adherence to department standards, course quality, and learning outcomes. Systematic feedback mechanisms are used to gather student perceptions, opinions, and experiences regarding their learning experiences within specific courses or classes. This feedback data helps identify areas of strength and areas that require improvement, enabling evidence-based decision-making to enhance teaching and learning.
The advising services and courses offered by the Academic Enrichment unit accentuate USF’s commitment to fostering student success. By providing individualized support and tailored academic pathways, these advisors empower students to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Whether helping a student pivot to a new major, explore potential academic interests, or complete a specialized degree program, the Academic Enrichment team plays a vital role in shaping student success stories at USF.