Student Experience

Strategic Plan

Ensure students have the opportunity for a transformative, student-centered experience that provides comprehensive support and an affordable education, and supplies a vibrant, engaging campus life — empowering every student to thrive personally and professionally before and after graduation.

  1. Student Experience Strategies
    1. Enhance Student Recruitment and Enrollment
      1. Implement targeted recruitment initiatives at the undergraduate and graduate level emphasizing SFA’s unique academic offerings and supportive community.
      2. Improve efficiencies and timeliness associated with applications, enrollment, and financial aid.
      3. Collaborate with regional K-12 schools and community colleges to establish seamless pathways for students, including streamlined transfer processes.
      4. Provide an enhanced digital experience so that students can take care of procedural items online.
    2. Increase Financial Literacy and Aid
      1. Expand scholarships, tuition assistance, work-study opportunities, and emergency aid to ensure financial barriers do not impede student enrollment and retention.
      2. Re-envision the provision of course materials for students and support open educational resources.
      3. Offer programming and resources to educate students and their families on managing finances, budgeting, and minimizing debt to empower them to make informed financial decisions.
    3. Strengthen Student Support and Retention
      1. Adopt proactive, data-informed advising practices that address both academic and personal factors impacting student success.
      2. Expand orientation and support services for first-year, second-year, transfer, and international students, recognizing their unique backgrounds and positioning them for success.
      3. Utilize predictive analytics to identify at-risk students and implement targeted interventions to support their academic journey.
      4. Support the development of students as professionals, including growing the number of paid internships and career support opportunities.
      5. Increase financial, academic, and housing support options for graduate students to improve competitiveness and affordability.
      6. Offer a vibrant residential experience that fosters academic success and personal growth, making SFA a destination of choice for prospective students.
      7. Invest and maintain academic, residential, student, and athletic infrastructure according to the Master Plan.
    4. Enrich Campus Life and Social Engagement
      1. Promote a welcoming campus environment by fostering a supportive atmosphere where all students feel connected and valued as part of the campus community.
      2. Expand opportunities for student involvement in clubs, leadership roles, and campus events to deepen their engagement and sense of belonging.
      3. Develop a co-curricular experience to better describe to future employers the translatable skills and traits the students acquired or accessed through their participation in various co-curricular activities.
      4. Offer a variety of events and activities that encourage students to connect, have fun, and explore shared interests, contributing to a vibrant and dynamic campus experience.