Program Coordinator Works to Make UC s Senior Year Experience the Very Best
Meredith Smith proudly recalls marching at the University of Cincinnatis Commencement Ceremony last spring, achieving her bachelors degree in communication and a minor in African-American studies. As program coordinator for UCs new Senior Year Experience Program, shes now helping students near graduation plan for a world of possibilities after their own graduation.
The University of Cincinnati joins a growing trend across the country to create a program to help seniors continue on their pathway to success after graduation. While UCs First Year Experience (FYE) programs focus on helping new students adjust to college and build vital UC connections in and out of the classroom for their success, Smith says the Senior Year Experience prepares students for whats ahead after theyve spent a good majority of their lives in school.
I remember my own senior experience, Smith says, and just the anxiety of the unknown that was lying ahead. So as Im developing this program, Im hoping this will be an effort that will provide a holding hands approach with seniors through the transition process, she says.
That includes preparing seniors for job searches as well as graduate school. Partnerships with the Career Development Center help students design their resumes and explore job opportunities. Graduate school symposiums featuring Q&A sessions with UC college administrators inform students about tests, seeking recommendations and developing their personal statements. The Senior Year Experience Program also provides opportunities for potential students to take free practice exams for the GRE, GMAT, LSAT and MCAT.
In addition, the Senior Year Experience program coordinates with the UC Alumni Association to feature special chat sessions with alumni as well as how students can hang on to their connections with their college friends and their university. Chat sessions include information and personal experiences about careers, consolidating finances, relocation and graduate school.
Smith says she got a great deal out of her own UC college experience and she wants other students to feel the same. One of the things I really liked about UC is that I felt that my professors were really determined to help me succeed. If I was struggling in a class, they were always there to support me.
A graduate of Cincinnati Christian in Fairfield, Smith says shes been a Bearcat fan all her life. Shes also exploring her own graduate school options at UC and is interested in exploring a peace studies focus toward a masters degree in educational studies.
Those interested in learning more about the Senior Year Experience program can drop by the office, located in Swift Hall, Room 702. Thats where UC seniors can also pick up a Senior Disco card just for UCs seniors. The card offers discounts along MainStreet and the Uptown.
Winter Quarter Senior Year Experience Events
For more information, call the Senior Year Experience Program at 513-556-2936
Graduate School Symposium 1 p.m., Feb. 15, University Pavilion Multipurpose Room
Practice Exam Session Feb. 17. Call 556-2936 to reserve your spot
Alumni Chat Session 6 p.m., March 20, UC Alumni Center
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