News, Updates, and Progress from the Undergraduate Advising Center
The UAC team celebrated a busy and productive end to 2024 with a whole staff retreat.
New Team Member
Join us in welcoming new team member, Staff Associate Brittney Francisco in Advising & Proactive Support Initiatives!
Three open positions have been posted.
UAC Advising: Check-In Meetings
The first semester of UAC sophomore advising was a success as UAC advisors continue to foster meaningful connections with students and support them as they navigate their MIT journey. Through targeted “Check-In Meetings,” advisors worked with 413 individual students (39% of the sophomore class) on a variety of topics including academic and personal goal setting, exploring co-curricular opportunities, and building personalized plans for success. Sophomore engagement was robust and encouraging, with 551 total student meetings. Designed to establish UAC advisors as a student’s trusted resource, the initial Check-In Meeting in September brought 304 students in to meet with their advisor. One-third (102) of the students who attended their first meeting returned for a follow-up meeting in November or December. Strong student participation demonstrates the impactful support the UAC provides to the sophomore class, and we are looking forward to building on this momentum next semester.
FLI Celebration
Our National First Gen Week of Celebration brought together over 300 students to celebrate this vibrant community. The annual event, captured in more detail in this FLI news story, showcased the meaningful connections and personal relationships the UAC FLI Team has cultivated.
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National Transfer Student Appreciation Week
In October, we proudly celebrated our transfer students during National Transfer Student Week (October 21-25, 2024), honoring the remarkable contributions and journeys of our transfer students. The week was filled with engaging events, including drop-in sessions and the distribution of the much-loved MIT Transfer jackets. The celebration culminated in a weekend filled with camaraderie and connection as students enjoyed lunch and a scenic boat cruise across Boston Harbor. The spirit of collaboration and support was palpable as everyone engaged in meaningful discussions and built lasting friendships. This weekend not only allowed students to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings, but also reinforced their sense of belonging within the transfer student community. Students, staff, and special guests celebrated achievements, embraced new beginnings, and looked forward to the exciting paths that lie ahead.
UAC Events
Throughout the fall semester, the UAC hosted a variety of events to build student engagement and foster connections. Our monthly “Sip with Diep” conversations, often featuring special guests like Chancellor Nobles, remain a highlight, creating a welcoming space for meaningful dialogue.
In collaboration with Student Financial Services, the UAC hosted a financial literacy event, empowering students to confidently understand and manage their finances. The UAC also participated in the Infinite Halloween Party, and hosted events on Drop Date and the last day of classes – SPA (Stress Prevention Activities). Students engaged with UAC staff and learned more about how the UAC can support them while they enjoyed snacks and a photobooth with friends.
The Office of the First Year Hubs continue to engage first-years by facilitating fun, informative sessions. Highlights include practical advice on surviving the New England winter weather (“No Flip Flops”), pre-registration and IAP planning, as well as finals prep advice.
— Stephanie Hamilton, UAC