Compass at Radford University: New Program Providing Support for Students
By: Keiko Klisiewecz
Compass, a newer program on campus is defined as “a complimentary benefit for select students based on their financial aid package offering holistic support, advocacy, and specialized programming.” However we wanted to know more details about this program and therefore met with Bruce Hayden, the Associate Vice President, Student Affairs/Dean of Students and the overseer of the Compass program to answer the question: What is Compass and how is it helping students?
Firstly the basics of Compass, it’s an offshoot of the Dean of Students office and is composed of seven dedicated Student Success Advocates, SSAs, and one admin staff that are there for students in need. One important note is eligibility, in order to find out if you are eligible for the program simply visit their website by searching “Compass Radford University” and do a short form to inquire.
Continuing, one of the main goals of Compass is to “offer any assistance that students may need to remove obstacles in their path.” according to Hayden. This can include but is not limited to students experiencing financial aid emergencies, students having trouble adjusting to college, and students in need of a resource but unsure of where to turn. Furthermore the Compass brochure mentions they assist in “accessing resources, learning essential skills, and navigating every aspect of their collegiate journey.” Nextly, when asked what students they target, it was mentioned that past the eligibility of financial aid they work with a “myriad” of students, including transfers, freshmen, and returning students.
So what can a student expect when meeting with an SSA? Well Hayden shares that he believes “it’s open to the student and what the student is telling us what they may need.” meaning that students have the say when it comes to how meetings are directed. For example if the student needs help with a certain problem or multiple problems they can come in prepared to discuss those. This type of freedom with meetings is going to encourage students to take charge and address their issues head on.
Overall Compass is continuing strong on its path to help students and is becoming an integral part of the Dean of Students office. Its message of holistic support is welcomed and a comforting support resource for students who are unsure of where to turn. If you need support on campus I would personally encourage students to find out if they are eligible via the website. That’s on Compass, helping you to navigate the college experience, so you don’t have to do it alone.
