What is the Emerging Scholars program?
The Emerging Scholars program connects invited first-year students with a success coach to provide support in adjusting to both the academic and social life at Salem State University. While all first-year students are assigned a coach, Emerging Scholars sets students up with a dedicated schedule of meetings and provides opportunities for further engagement, support, and fun. Students selected to be a part of the Emerging Scholars program will have access to a network of support designed to provide them with motivation, encouragement, and a community of friends who are also committed to doing their very best in college.
How does the program work?
First-year students participating in the program agree to meet every other week with their coach to discuss how the semester is progressing, what some of their concerns may be, and receive tips and guidance for successfully navigating their classes and life at the university. Throughout the course of each semester, the coach has specific guidance and information to share regarding academic success at each meeting based on what we know students struggle the most with (finding your motivation and purpose, studying for your first college midterm, registering for spring classes, etc.) In addition, participants are part of a cohort of other first-year students and invited to special social events and activities (reserved just for them!) throughout the year. These events are run by upper-class mentors and program coordinators who also help guide and support students all year long.
How do I join?
Students are invited to participate in the program after a review of their admission materials. Invitation emails and letters are sent out in June outlining the program and sign-up process. Students are not part of the program until they have completed the sign-up form. PLEASE NOTE: family members should not sign their student up. Spaces are limited so involvement will be on a first-come basis and focused on students who are committed to participating. Students who have been invited may sign up at the link sent to them via email (students should always double-check their clutter/junk folders in case emails accidentally go there). If students lost the information they may email emergingscholars@salemstate.edu.
What do I get out of the program?
Besides the support of a designated success coach to meet with every other week, students are invited to special social and support programs, receive a free t-shirt, and when the FYE office is open have access to free printing for class-related needs. Participants who participate in the activities scheduled throughout the year and maintain a 2.5 GPA through the end of their first year are inducted for free into Alpha Omega Psi, a local honor society honoring first-year success. Alpha Omega Psi members receive a membership certificate, a society medallion to wear at graduation, and have the opportunity to apply to serve as a peer leader in the program for their sophomore year.
Additional questions about the program can be directed to the first-year experience office at 978.542.2618 or emergingscholars@salemstate.edu.