Programs in the Paul L. Foster Success Center provide targeted groups with tools and support for success at Baylor

In recent years, Baylor University has implemented a range of strategies to help its students succeed, both academically and socially. Under the oversight of the Paul L. Foster Success Center, Baylor has paid particular attention to the needs and opportunities of three specific student populations who are at risk for having difficulty in navigating the college environment and graduating in four years: first-generation college students, military veterans and transfer students.

First in Line

Baylor University’s First in Line program is helping first-generation students make a successful transition to campus life. According to Michelle Cohenour, director of the First in Line program, approximately one out of every eight Baylor students qualifies as a first-generation student. The First in Line program helps these students learn everything from terminology and how to meet with academic advisors to gaining an understanding of financial aid and campus office hours. Students participate in monthly workshops, a peer leader program and a First in Line Student Society.

“The transition to college is not easy for anyone, but it is especially challenging for these students. A little effort at the beginning to make sure they know the ropes pays huge dividends for these students and for the University,” said Dr. Todd Buras, associate professor of philosophy and a former first-generation college student himself.

Baylor VETS Program

In a similar fashion, Baylor has established a program, called VETS (Veteran Educational and Transition Services) as a means of helping student veterans identify and connect with resources to maximize academic success. The free benefits offered through the VETS program include a transition coach, a new student experience course, mentors, and career development. In recognition of its efforts, Baylor has been ranked No. 43 among national universities in the U.S. News Best Colleges for Veterans ranking.

Transfer Student Experience

Each fall, Baylor welcomes roughly 450 new transfer students from all over the United States and even from other countries. Many arrive on campus through the 11 official Baylor Bound Articulation Agreements with community colleges from across the state.

To help these new students make their years at Baylor a success, the Office of Transfer Student Success offers them personal coaching, academic support and the opportunity to take part in the Transfer Year Experience Living-Learning Program, which is home to 200 transfer student in the University Parks Apartment Complex. In addition, every year, Baylor’s Office of Spiritual Life holds a Transfer Student Retreat.

With the First in Line, VETS and Transfer Student Success program sharing space in the Foster Success Center, Baylor recently took steps to make the common area used by these student populations more welcoming and inspiring. Using $40,000 from the proceeds of the 2016 Baylor Christmas ornaments, Baylor recently enhanced the student space with community-oriented graphics and new furnishings.