First generation college students are a particularly independent group, but every student needs help sometimes; we’re all here to learn new skills, after all! Luckily, Truman is set up with this in mind, and offers a number of free or low-cost campus resources to support students. Your tuition and campus fees have paid for these services, and staff in these offices consider helping students the main focus of their jobs. There will be few other times in your life where help will be so readily available, so take advantage!
Want to keep on top of your academics?
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The Center for Academic Excellence (1st floor Kirk Building) is where you can find academic advisors for first year and transfer students. They can answer questions about 4-year plans as well as deadlines for course registration, add/drop, and withdrawal.
In addition, the Center has a free, full-service tutoring center for a variety of subjects; appointments can be made to suit your schedule.
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Department-specific tutoring is offered for some subjects at set dates and times:
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Accounting
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Biology
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Chemistry (by faculty and by upper-level students from the AXE organization)
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Math
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Faculty office hours exist specifically for your individual questions. See your course syllabus for hours you can drop by your professor/instructor’s office. Whether you need help with an assignment, have a question, or just want to introduce yourself, stopping by office hours is a great way to do it.
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If your major is in the field of Science or Mathematics, you may be eligible for STEM Talent Expansion Programs (STEP). They can provide additional academic advising support and tutoring. Check out the website or contact Dr. Barbara Kramer for more information.
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Disability Services (McKinney Center) can help arrange accommodations for permanent or temporary disabilities, both inside and outside of the classroom.
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The Writing Center (1st floor Kirk Building) assists students in getting started with, editing, or figuring out citations for a paper.
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The Research Assistance Program at the library provides 1-on-1 assistance with a reference librarian to help find appropriate resources for papers or presentations.
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If you are considering attending graduate school after Truman, you may be eligible to apply for the McNair Program. It provides academic and social support and removes barriers from graduate degree attainment for first-generation, income-eligible, and underrepresented minority students. For more information about the McNair Program, see the website or contact Stephanie Raymond.
Want to better manage your finances?
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The Financial Aid Office (McClain Hall 103) can answer questions about loans, renewing your scholarships, filling out your FAFSA, or setting up a payment plan.
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Student Accounts (McClain Hall 105) staff can help you understand or pay your bill, process any financial aid refunds, and answer questions about payment due dates.
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TruPositions is the place to find a work-study job or other campus employment.
Want to stay healthy?
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University Counseling Services can help students manage stress, discuss a range of adjustment or relationship issues, or consult regarding concerns for other students.
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The Student Health Center can provide immunizations or allergy injections, reproductive health services, and general medical treatment for illnesses or injuries.
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The Student Rec Center offers free group exercise classes and health assessments, manages intramural sports competitions, and even offers low-cost personal training sessions for students.
Want to get engaged with other underrepresented students?
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The Multicultural Affairs Center provides academic and cultural programming to help foster an environment of diversity, inclusion, equity, and social justice.
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The Center for International Students hosts a number of campus events each year to create meaningful interaction across cultures.
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FirstGen United is a student-led organization at Truman that provides mentoring, fellowship, and resources for first generation college students.
Check out some additional online resources
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Center for First-Generation Student Success– National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA)
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First in the Family
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I’m First!