How it Works
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Student Support Initiative?
SSI is an effort driven by the Office of the Chancellor to enhance the ability of first and second year students to successfully engage the continuous support and guidance they need to thrive from day one.
SSI introduces an innovative model for student support that pairs trained upper-year students called Student Success Guides (SSGs) with first and second year students via the MentorHub NU app. SSGs serve as a navigation guide for students to quickly and efficiently connect with the experts and resources they need. SSGs will work with Success Coordinators, full time staff members who oversee SSGs and are also available to students to address challenges that require additional support.
How does SSI support advisory services?
Through SSI, SSGs aid students by quickly addressing common questions and engaging needed resources. This ensures time spent with advisors and support staff is focused on topics related to their academic experience and professional aspirations.
How will the MentorHub NU app integrate with other applications that students use?
MentorHub NU supports interactions between students, SSGs, and Success Coordinators. We are working on integrating the app with the academic calendar, the academic advising scheduling system, event calendars and the co-op rideshare app.
What is a Student Success Guide?
SSGs are upper-year students trained to help learners and refer them to the appropriate resources. SSGs are the first point of contact for students and will leverage technology to support weekly check-ins with each student. While learners are always welcome to reach out to advisors and support staff directly, SSGs will enable them to identify, access and engage the appropriate resource more efficiently.
What is a Success Coordinator?
A Success Coordinator is a full-time trained staff member who oversees and supports SSGs in engaging with students. Success Coordinators partner with NU advising and student support staff to ensure that students are receiving adequate support.
How does the Student Support Initiative differ from existing programs like the General Studies Program or the Explore Program for Undeclared Students?
The General Studies Program provides staff and peer support to first year students through academic advisors, peer mentors, and nationally certified peer tutors. The Explore program offers pre-orientation advising as well as support for international students and N.U.in students.
SSI complements these existing efforts to ensure that students fully leverage all resources. SSGs assist students in connecting with advisors and support staff across the university – not just in academics and well-being, but also in career services, co-op, global experiences, and more. This individualized referral support not only considers student background and interests, but also identifies the offices and individuals across the university best equipped to support them. In addition, SSGs help students define and reach their goals each semester and follow up to ensure success.
When do you accept SSG applications?
SSG applications are typically accepted on a semesterly basis. For the latest hiring information, check out our Instagram @nustudentsupport.
How do I become an SSG?
Applications are currently closed. Please keep an eye out for our Instagram at @nustudentsupport for further information.
If I am chosen, what can I expect from the SSG training?
Training will provide SSGs with a deep understanding of best practices for mentoring and the different resources available to students at Northeastern. SSGs will be introduced to the MentorHub NU platform that will enable their interactions with incoming students and will also receive training on Title IX and other security, safety, and relevant topics
How many hours a week do I have to commit?
SSGs will typically be expected to work up to eight hours each week.
Do SSGs get paid?
Yes, Student Success Guides are paid $17 per hour.
What is the student-to-SSG ratio?
Each SSG will be assigned approximately 30 first-year students.
What is the range of issues an SSG can deal with?
SSGs are trained to help students navigate Northeastern’s support system and resources across various issues, including academics, financial aid, extracurriculars, career planning, physical and behavioral health, athletics, study abroad, and research opportunities. SSGs act as navigators and problem solvers who can direct the student to the appropriate resource across the university. SSGs also work with SSI Packs to build community.
How do I benefit by becoming an SSG?
Student Success Guides are a key part of supporting Northeastern’s vision of delivering a best-in-class educational experience with experiential learning at the core. As first-year students settle into university life, SSGs will play a critical role in helping them navigate Northeastern’s resources so that they are better supported and more successful. The initiative offers an opportunity for students to give back and pave the way for the next generation of NU leaders. In the process, you’ll also gain valuable coaching and leadership skills, key skills you’ll carry forward in your professional life regardless of your path.
How will I be matched with an SSG? Can I choose my SSG?
SSI pairs first-year students with SSGs using factors such as program location, college, and major to allow for them not only to connect with their SSG but to provide a cohort-based experience with peers sharing the similar academic experiences as a common ground to build community.
When will incoming students have access to the MentorHub NU App and be able to meet their SSG?
All incoming first year students will have access to the MentorHub NU app shortly after committing to the university in late spring/early summer. Communication will be sent to you once you are able to log in.
You can meet your SSG via in-app messaging by downloading (iPhone or Android) the app and logging in with your Northeastern credentials. In addition, you’ll have access to video chat with your SSG to help you prepare for your Husky journey and support you throughout your first year experience!
How will you use student data?
Anonymous student data will be used to enhance our processes and systems and ensure that students can fully leverage university resources. The data may also be used for research to inform future university policies and broader scholarship.
How will program participation look different for first year students that are abroad?
Students abroad will have SSGs and can connect with them via the app over the summer and remain connected throughout their program. These students won’t have the in-person social opportunities with their SSG while abroad but instead will be able to meet with their Site Coordinator. SSGs will be available to support as you return to the Boston campus and ensure a smooth transition when the time comes.
Will access look different for N.U.in and Global Scholars students in locations beyond Boston?
N.U.in and Global Scholars students will have the same access to the MentorHub NU app and their SSG! The only difference is that you will have a professional staff member and Site Coordinator who can be reached via the Mentorhub NU app. While the SSG will be based in Boston, these learners will have in-person support at their location through the program’s professional staff!