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Ms. Sonya Webster
Retention Coordinator
B.A: Elementary Edu., UM 1995
M.A: Higher Education: Student Services, UM 1998
Room 101
601-979-1251
sonya.d.webster@jsums.edu


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 The Office of Student Retention Services

The Office of Student Retention Services was implemented Fall 2005 by the Division of Undergraduate Studies to increase the retention rate of students, especially first to second semester freshmen as well as fall-to-fall retention.  The Office of Student Retention Services (OSRS) is currently responsible for coordinating and implementing the university retention action plan, devising academic support programming for at risk students, and incorporating best practices in retention theory at Jackson State.  

The primary goals of this office are to:

  • Increase retention
  • Reduce the number of students on probation and suspension
  • Increase the graduation rate of students

The Retention Coordinator currently assist students with:

  • Withdrawal from the University
  • Completion of Satisfactory Academic Progress Appeals for Freshman and Sophomores
  • Completion of Academic Second Chance/New Start
  • Academic Support
  • Academic Advisement
  • Academic Standing Notification 

Student support Services: Makin’ It Happen….Right Here…..Right Now

Tips for Academic Success  

The first-year college transition can be very overwhelming for students. To assist students with the college transition the Division of Undergraduate Studies and the Office of Student Retention Services provide academic support services, life skills training and college success strategies.

Attend All Classes-Students Who Attend Class Tend To Pass

Allow enough time so that you arrive before the class begins.  Sit near the front of the classroom.  When taking notes in classes, indicate in some way those items you believe are especially important.  Go back to those spots when studying.  Listen for clues from the professor, e.g."this is important."  ASK QUESTIONS;clarifying information is important.  Review notes as soon as possible after class.

It's really easy to skip one class citing boredom, lack of interest, however each and every class is important.  It's just as easy to get behind on one's reponsibilities and class assignments.  And frequently students lament, "I thought I could catch up."

Be Organized

Use one notebook for each class. Keeping your syllabus and handouts in a specific location so that you may easily refer to them later.  Keep a calendar listing dates assignments are due.  Break assignments down to smaller tasks.  Indicate on the calendar the date when each task must be completed. 

Develop a Study Schedule

Read appropriate texts making notes as you go along.  Set aside specific times for studying in a quiet location.  Consider studying in the Library, or a tutor site.  Don't leave studying until the last minute.  Start a Study Group.  Students who study in a group often make better use of their time, are better prepared for exams and provide support for one another.  Ask a tutor to assist you in this endeavor.
Know the Academic Rules and Regulations

Ignore Rumors

Always get the facts by speaking with a professional or first-year faculty advisor.

Learn to Manage your Time

Time Management is one of the most frequent areas with which student's struggle.  Yes, it's important to have academic and social experiences; If you learn to plan your time effectively, you can do both.

Get to know your Professors/Schedule Conferences with your Professor

Not only are they your instructors, here at Jackson State University, they will most often become your friends as well.  Research shows that students frequently judge the worth of their academic experience from their interactions with faculty members. How many of your instructors do you know.

Become involved in Campus Life

Becoming involved in your campus community is very important.  This does not mean that you should join every student club or volunteer for every activity. Campus life will enhance your college experience in a myriad of ways.  Research indicates that students who participate in campus life often feel more connected.

Attend Tutoring or Schedule Conferences with your Advisors

Tutoring is available for many courses offered here at Jackson State University.  Tutors are peers who have taken the course and received a good grade.  Waiting until the night before the exam to see a tutor is not in your best interest.  Visiting the tutors regularly helps most students.  This service is free to all students.  Computer labs are available in the H.T. Sampson Library, Undergraduate Studies and the schools and colleges at JSU.  The Richard Wright Writing Center, located in the H.T. Sampson Library, is available to assist you with all your writing needs.

Participate in Experiential Opportunities

Jackson State University offers many experiential opportunities: Internships, Study Aboard Programs and the AlternativeSpring  Break.  Make sure to participate in one experiential opportunity during your matriculation at JSU.