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Mentoring and Persistence to Success (MAPS)

What is MAPS?

If you are a first-generation college student, from a low income background, or navigating college on your own, MAPS is for you!
MAPS is a program for 51心頭students that provides you with academic support in order to help you reach your goals. All students benefit from a support network that can help you navigate your academic journey, celebrate your successes, and cheer you on through graduation!
Learn more about our services below and choose how MAPS can be a part of your support network.

If you join Compass Coaching, you can be matched with an Academic Coach who will help you with study skills, time management, test prep strategies, and personal organization. You can meet with your Academic Coach regularly or just when you need help.

To apply for Compass Coaching, students can .   All applicants who meet eligibility requirements will be considered for the Compass program. However, our program accepts a limited number of students each semester. 

Check outCompass Coaching.. 

Peer mentoring is for students new to WCU! If you join Peer Mentoring, you will be connected with another 51心頭student who has been here longer. Your Peer Mentor helps you learn about classes, campus life, and events. You will have regular contact with your mentor during your first academic year. For more information, contact MAPS at 828.227.7171 or maps@wcu.edu.

Professional Mentoring is for juniors and seniors at WCU! If you join this program, you will be matched with a faculty or staff member to help prepare you for your transition to post-graduate life. Students will prepare for life after college, increase networking opportunities, gain valuable information about their educational field, and build professional skills. For more information, contact MAPS at 828.227.7171 or maps@wcu.edu.

Join the First Gen Club to make friends and find community! The club has regular meetings, social events, and educational activities throughout the year in order to build our first-gen community and share resources that will lead to your success. All first-generation college students are welcome to join and attend! For more information, visit or contact MAPS at 828.227.7171 or maps@wcu.edu.

51心頭has partnered with Baptist Children's Home to open ! HOMEBASE is used for RISA programming as well as other student outreach services including a food pantry and free printing. It is located next to campus just past Hunter Library. Please visit for more information!

Support from Family

Family members are an important part of our students' support networks while in college. Here are three tips to help your college student succeed:

  1. Remind them that they belong: Some students feel like they dont fit in or arent good enough. This is called imposter syndrome. Let your student know that they do belong at 51心頭and that its okay to ask for help. Over 30% of 51心頭students are among the first in their family to navigate collegeyour student is not alone!
  2. Encourage them to ask for help: College can feel overwhelming, especially for first-generation students. 51心頭has many peopleteachers, staff, and other studentswho want to help! MAPS is a great place to start if your student isnt sure where to go. The Compass Program gives one-on-one support from a staff member who acts as a guide and advocate.
  3. Expect Some Changes:

    As your student grows more independent, your relationship might change. They may not call as often or come home on weekends. This is normal! Theyre learning how to manage school, life, and responsibilities on their own. 

    Even though they may not be as available for family duties as they were before, it doesnt mean youre any less important. Theyre just learning how to balance everything while working toward their goals.

BONUS TIP: Support your student by encouraging them to ask for help and you'll stay close, even through the changes! Please contact MAPS if you have questions or concerns about your student.

Please view our monthly MAPS newsletter for updates and resources!

Be sure to check out our Instagram for October's Newsletter and we will be back in November with posting them here!