As the 2023 fall semester approaches, the Office of Undergraduate Education (OUE) is rolling out an array of innovative programs and initiatives aimed at enhancing student success, fostering inclusivity, and transforming the learning experience. 

OUE Strategic Alignment Planning

At the end of July, the OUE senior leadership team participated in an off-site meeting to take a reflective and constructive look at the ongoing work across OUE and to start aligning and prioritizing that work with our Institute Strategic Plan (ISP). This plan will build on OUE's work from last year to realign our senior leadership structure and will help us move towards our shared “North Star” to Create a transformative and meaningful undergraduate experience for every student.

First-Year Student Success Seminar Series 

One of the highlights of the upcoming semester is the launch of the First-Year Student Success Seminar Series. This series will equip incoming students with the tools they need to thrive in their academic and personal lives. Through a combination of interactive workshops and panel discussions, students will gain valuable insights into time management, study strategies, campus resources, and more. In a truly collaborative effort, workshops will be hosted by staff from the Career Center, Academic Success & Advising, Experiential & Engaged Learning, and the Scheller College of Business.

Transfer2Tech Mentorship Program

Georgia Tech has made a significant commitment to growing the transfer student population and knowing that these students and their needs are unique, the Office of Undergraduate Education has partnered with Mentor Collective to create the Transfer2Tech mentorship program this fall. Peer mentors are trained in active listening skills to help students navigate the Georgia Tech experience. Whether students are concerned with getting involved on campus, managing schoolwork and stress, or even having difficult conversations, mentors can help. Relatable peer mentors can also improve sense of belonging for our transfer students to feel better connected with the Georgia Tech community (Mentor Collective). There was an incredible response from our Georgia Tech students wanting to serve as mentors for our transfers. A testament to how committed our student are to this Institution and each other. 

Transforming Teaching & Learning Initiative 

Georgia Tech's commitment to excellence in education is further underscored by the Transforming Teaching & Learning Initiative. This initiative focuses on implementing innovative teaching methods and incorporating technology to enhance the learning experience for students. This semester, Chris Reaves and Experiential & Engaged Learning (E2L) will take on a larger role in the initiative by engaging faculty to ensure all students have access to transformative learning experiences. 

Career Coaching Network 

Recognizing the importance of career development, the Career Center is continuing its second year of the Career Coaching Network. Its purpose is to equip faculty and staff with a variety of resources to assist students who approach them with common career concerns. The Career Coaching Network provides train-the-trainer sessions and 1-hour career conversations to discuss best practices when working with students. 

Virtual Graduate School Showcase 

For students considering advanced degrees, the Virtual Graduate School Showcase, co-hosted by Pre-Graduate & Pre-Professional Advising and Graduate Education, offers a convenient platform to explore postgraduate opportunities. This online event, now in its third year, brings together representatives from various graduate programs across the country, allowing students to gather information, ask questions, and make informed decisions about their academic future. The event will be hosted on October 20, 2023. 

Georgia Legislative Requirement

Under Georgia Law, all undergraduate students must satisfy four “Georgia Legislative Requirements” (GLRs) to graduate: US History, Georgia History, US Constitution, and Georgia Constitution. OUE is making the GLR process simpler with the introduction of the Georgia Legislative Requirement Website. This resource provides clear and concise information about legislative requirements, ensuring that students stay informed and compliant. More resources, including student walkthrough videos, will be added to the site over the semester.

Quality Enhancement Plan: Leadership in Progress and Service

After consideration of potential topics, the QEP committee has selected “Leadership in Progress and Service: Creating Intentional and Transformative Learning Experiences.” Planning around the new topic will take place over the next year. The next step of QEP development will involve outlining a course of action that includes the creation of a timeline and budget for implementation. This work will be operationally based within the Office of Undergraduate Education (OUE) and will be executed in collaboration with the Office of Academic Effectiveness, as well as faculty, staff, and students from across campus. A faculty director search for the QEP is already underway, and an additional position will be posted soon. 

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives 

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) remain at the forefront of OUE's priorities, and multiple initiatives are underway to promote inclusivity and equity.

• Transfer Year Experience Program (TYE): The TYE Program is designed to support transfer students as they transition into the Georgia Tech community. Through targeted events, high-impact learning practices, and a focus on belonging, TYE students are set up for success from day one.
• Campus Partnerships: Collaborations with various campus partners are driving inclusive excellence across events, programs, and initiatives. The College of Engineering's partnership with OUE is a prime example of leveraging resources to create an inclusive environment for all students.
• DEI Programs: OUE is launching an array of DEI programs, including scholarships to remove financial barriers for standardized tests, enhanced outcomes for the Diversity First Career Mixer and an Employer Career Equity Summit to address equity in career opportunities. Inclusive Tutoring workshops further ensure a diverse and supportive learning community.

GT 1000 & 2000: Leadership and DEI Training 

GT 1000 & 2000 courses will embrace leadership and DEI training for Team Leaders over the next two semesters. By participating in reading circles and engaging with G. Cohen's book "Belonging," instructors will embark on a year-long journey to cultivate a sense of belonging and inclusivity within their classrooms.

Clough Spaces Renovation

On Aug. 7, the Office of Undergraduate Education (OUE) began renovating its spaces in Clough 205 and 283. The renovation aims to revitalize and modernize the office spaces, providing a more dynamic and efficient hub for undergraduate students and staff alike. Construction is expected to wrap in January 2024.

The 2023 fall semester at Georgia Tech's Office of Undergraduate Education promises to be one of innovation, growth, and inclusivity. With a rich blend of seminars, initiatives, partnerships, and resources, students are poised to undertake a transformative educational journey that prepares them for a successful and impactful future.