New participants in the program discuss their educational history and current academic performance with their SSS counselor. Additionally, they take part in assessments to identify study habits, academic skills, and learning styles. The results of these activities are helpful both for discovering strengths and suggesting areas for improvement.

Beyond these initial steps, participants continue to benefit from an ongoing focus on academic development. Through midterm progress reports and a review of each semester’s achievement, SSS counselors help students remain aware of their academic standing and recommend resources to help improve performance.

For participants majoring in Associate in Arts or Associate in Science degrees, SSS counselors serve as their assigned academic advisor at MTC. However, all participants are encouraged to discuss their course selection with SSS staff each semester. In addition to helping students prepare for their departmental advisement appointment, SSS is able to assist in evaluating the pros and cons of their choices.