Student Success Initiatives
Florida State University established the Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement—or CARE—with a mission to contribute to the successful retention and graduation of undergraduate students from disadvantaged economic or educational circumstances. CARE provides preparation, orientation, mentoring and academic support for first-generation students, such as college life coaching, financial literacy training, academic tutoring and more.
In addition to this academic support, CARE’s reach extends beyond the classroom. Through mentorship and the development of close-knit relationships, students fully engage in university life. They are Student Body Presidents, Homecoming Chiefs and Princesses, Global Scholars, Rhodes Scholars, Fulbright recipients and more. Simply put, CARE students are integral to the future of Florida State University.
Help us shape these deserving students into our future leaders. Your gift can help FSU do even more. The State of Florida provides a two-for-one state match for all contributions to this fund, effectively tripling this student population's financial support
First-generation student researcher pursues a better society through fellowship, empathy
Florida State University News, Released November 4, 2022
Florida State University first-generation student Kehinde Sogbesan is a CARE program participant who received an IDEA grant for his scientific and entrepreneurial research and worked as a head research assistant at the Mayo Clinic.
Sogbesan credits the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program for teaching him the skills necessary to manage his studies while also engaging in research.
CARE bridges the gap for FSU’s first-generation students
Florida State University News, Released July 13, 2020
Beginning college can be an overwhelming experience for first-year students. And starting college amid a pandemic can make the experience more intimidating. For first-generation students, it can be an even bigger challenge.
To help ease the transition to college for first-generation students, Florida State University’s Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE) provides a foundation of support along with opportunities for campus engagement through its annual Summer Bridge Program (SBP). This year’s cohort will be the first in the program’s history to complete it virtually — and for class credit.
FSU receives new designation for its commitment to first-generation student success
Florida State University News, Released June 23, 2020
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida State University has received designation as a First-gen Forward Advisory Institution, recognizing its commitment to improving experiences and advancing outcomes of first-generation college students.
Florida State is one of just 11 schools nationally to earn the designation from the Center for First-generation Student Success, an initiative of NASPA – Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education and The Suder Foundation. Selected institutions receive professional development, community-building experiences, and a first look at the center’s research and resources.
FSU’s Center for Academic Retention and Enhancement (CARE) aims to provide first-generation students with the preparation and academic support necessary to trailblaze a successful college career.