Welcome to the Ten-Twenty Krew Instructional Hub!

SE 1020 students will be able to:

• Develop self-awareness and a sense of purpose

• Navigate Southeastern's academic and cultural landscape

• Build skills in time management, communication, and self-advocacy

• Create a sustainable academic plan that aligns with personal goals

• Engage with peers, advisors, faculty, and campus resources meaningfully

Culturally Relevant

Affirms diverse identities and honors students’ lived experiences

Use journaling and small group reflection on belonging, expectations, and experiences

Advising-Integrated

Integrates academic advising and first-year seminar teaching

Goal-setting and mid-semester checkpoints with SE 1020 advisors

Trauma-Informed

Recognizes the emotional and psychological load first-year students carry

Offer flexible deadlines, normalize mental health discussions, and allow for personal reflection

Skills-Focused

Balances academic, emotional, and real-life skill development

Teach college etiquette/lingo alongside emotional regulation and group work skills

Purpose-Driven

Encourages exploration beyond the major

Prompt students to explore careers, community, and self-concept not just GPA

1. Student–Instructor Connection

• Build Trust Early: Begin the semester with intentional icebreakers and personal introductions. Share your own college journey or struggles to humanize the instructor role.

• Regular, Genuine Check-Ins: Use surveys, one-on-one meetings, or quick journaling prompts to gauge student well-being and progress, showing that you care beyond academics.

• Accessible Communication: Establish clear, approachable communication channels (office hours, email, messaging apps) and respond promptly to student questions or concerns.

• Model Growth Mindset: Share your own learning experiences, emphasize effort over perfection, and normalize setbacks as part of growth.
  
  

2. Student–Course Connection

• Make Learning Relevant: Tie course concepts to real-world applications, students’ identities, or current events to increase intrinsic motivation.

• Active Learning Techniques: Incorporate discussions, group work, problem-solving, and reflection to move students from passive recipients to active participants.

• Chunk Content: Break material into manageable pieces with clear objectives and frequent formative assessments to avoid overwhelm.

• Flexible Learning Paths: Offer options for assignments or reflections to allow students to connect personally with the content.
  
  

3. Student–Student (Peer) Connection

• Facilitate Collaborative Learning: Use structured peer activities (think-pair-share, peer review, group projects) to encourage accountability and relationship building.

• Create Safe Spaces: Set community agreements that promote respect, confidentiality, and inclusion, allowing students to share openly.

• Leverage Peer Mentors: Integrate upperclassmen or peer leaders who can provide guidance, support, and relatable perspectives.

• Celebrate Diversity: Encourage students to share cultural perspectives or unique experiences to deepen empathy and understanding.
  
  

4. Student–Campus Connection

• Connect to Resources Early: Introduce key campus services (tutoring, counseling, clubs) through guided tours, guest speakers, or assignments that require engagement

• Encourage Involvement: Assign exploration of clubs, events, or leadership opportunities aligned with students’ interests or identities.

• Partner with Advisors: Coordinate lesson plans with academic advisors to reinforce goal-setting, academic planning, and campus navigation.

• Highlight Campus Culture: Use traditions, events, and campus stories to build pride and a sense of belonging.

Cuseo, J. (2010). Instructor’s Manual for Thriving in College & Beyond: Research-Based Strategies for Academic Success and Personal Development. Dubuque, IA: Kendall/Hunt.