With scholarship support, mentoring, and an accompanying curriculum covering technological literacy, financial management, and self-advocacy, Smart Track to Success helps selected first-year World Campus students make the critical transition to online learning.
Working together in a cohort setting, more than 750 students — many supported by the generosity of our donors — have completed the two-semester program, which began in 2017. Join us in recognizing these students’ efforts to excel by making a gift to support students with financial need through the Charles E. and Carol E. Snyder World Campus Alumni Society Open Doors Scholarship. Every kind act of giving makes a difference — thank you.
Reflected in improved grade-point average scores, course completion, and retention, the positive impact of Smart Track to Success on student success is undeniable. In surveys following participation, students are enthusiastic in their assessment of the program, as well:
- “I found it extremely helpful after being out of school for so many years.”
- “The program eased my transition back to academic life.”
- “I am more confident now and driven to succeed.”
- “It is an incredible opportunity.”
- “It was a jump start to my degree.”
- “I am confident in going forward in my degree.”
According to Assistant Vice Provost Dawn Coder, who oversees Smart Track to Success through the Roz and Gene Chaiken Center for Student Success in Penn State World Campus, “Students are typically excited to be beginning their Penn State journey.”
However, she also notes that it can be a daunting time: “Penn State World Campus students also feel the stress of it all. It’s natural to become overwhelmed by complex course work, the time commitment required to get good grades, and the prospect of unforeseen challenges.” And, she added, “That is why, at the Chaiken Center, we are committed to providing first-year students with what they need to thrive all the way to graduation. The Smart Track to Success program is one way that we can do exactly that.”