SSS Services

Each SSS participant is assigned to a personal counselor whose main objective is to assist students throughout their college career at UA. Our counselors provide the necessary framework needed to stay on track academically. Because college life can seem overwhelming to students at times, SSS counselors are also prepared and eager to offer assistance in the areas of financial aid, career decisions, graduate school preparation, as well as other areas of personal concern. Contact our counselors: Anthony Winston, awinston@ctl.ua.edu, 205-348-5376 Chris Lee, clee@ctl.ua.edu, 205-348-6099

Free tutoring is provided to SSS program participants in many core curriculum courses. Tutoring sessions are designed to maximize the learning experience of the student during weekly hour and a half appointments. SSS utilizes both graduate and undergraduate tutors who have demonstrated excellence in their UA classes and who come with the highest faculty recommendations. For more information on SSS tutoring, contact our Academic Coordinator: Dianne Teague, dteague@ctl.ua.edu, 205-348-5318

Throughout the year, SSS offers workshops and seminars designed to enhance student development. Seminar formats range from individual guest speakers to group panels to student-led roundtable discussions. While planning workshops, the SSS staff tries to vary the days and times these events are offered in order to reach a broader spectrum of students. Workshop topics are aimed at enhancing the overall college experience as well as exposing students to the diverse culture in which we live. See the SSS calendar and sign up for a workshop or seminar today!

Student Support Services offers its participants a private computer lab located in 226 Oaband Hall. A quiet study area with beautiful views of Bryant-Denny Stadium is also available within the lab. Participants may use the lab to work on class assignments, check e-mail, or browse the internet. A printer is available for small printing projects free of charge. The lab is open Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Student Support Services offers the following credit-bearing skill building courses free of charge to program participants: Academic Skills:  College Writing – 1 hour credit Academic Skills:  Textbook Reading – 2 hours credit Academic Skills:  College Success – 2 hours credit Academic Skills:  Professional Development – 1 hour credit MATH 100 - 099  Intermediate Algebra – 3 hours credit See the current listing of SSS courses being offered. For more information contact an SSS counselor.

Each fall and spring semester, SSS mails mid-term progress report forms to professors and insructors of each SSS participant. Upon receiving the completed reports, SSS counselors discuss mid-term grades and strategies for improvement when necessary. Various methods of help are offered such as tutoring, study skills information, time management tips, or something as simple as a one-on-one visit with the professor.

The University of Alabama, city of Tuscaloosa, and state of Alabama all provide wonderfully entertaining and enriching activities for students. As a participant in SSS, students can attend plays, concerts, poetry readings, art exhibits, and a variety of cultural activities free of charge. The SSS program offers several outings each semester. Be sure to check out the SSS calendar and sign up early for these events as space and tickets are sometimes limited.

As a college student, it's never too early to begin thinking about going to gradaute or professional school. Even as a freshman or sophomore, your academic record will directly affect your chances of getting into the school of your choice. Through the SSS Graduate School Prep Program, students will have the opportunity to connect with a UA faculty mentor in the student's area of interest. During your junior and senior year, take adantage of Kaplan entrance exam review classes free of charge (with the exception of books/materials.) See your SSS counselor for more information and an application to the SSS Graduate School Prep Program. Don't delay, apply today!

We know the freshman year experience can seem overwhleming at times. That's why we pair all SSS freshmen with upperclass peer mentors who have "been there and done that!" Our mentors volunteer their time to help students who are new to campus get adjusted more quickly. Mentors stay in touch with students by phone, e-mail, and group outings and provide constant encouragement to be the best they can be and gain the most from their college experience at UA. SSS mentors are chosen by the program staff after exhibiting exceptional academic and leadership qualities. For more information, contact SSS counselor, Chris Lee.