After a successful launch in Fall 2024, the newly redesigned first-year experience course at the University of Wisconsin-Superior has proven to be a game-changer in supporting first-year students. Data from the first semester of this new approach shows a meaningful jump in fall-to-spring retention rates to 90 percent – a significant milestone in student success.

The course was revised by the Health and Human Performance Department to provide first-year students with science-based health and wellness information while fostering a sense of social belonging on campus.

Through engaging lesson plans led by various student support campus partners, students learned essential skills for academic success and developed habits that promote a healthy and productive college experience.

“The redesign of the HHP-102 course has allowed our first-year students to see that UW-Superior wants them to be successful and that there are services in place to help them be successful,” said Kim LeBard-Rankila, chair of the Health and Human Performance Department. “Combining campus services with lectures that expand students’ understanding of individual health, functional wellness, and mental wellness allows them to begin to self-assess their own behaviors and move towards optimal individual health. Retention is about students feeling seen, heard and cared about – along with quality course content that is relevant to their future careers.”

The curriculum includes practical strategies for time management, stress reduction, and self-care, ensuring students build a strong foundation for both their academic and personal well-being.

Instructors play a pivotal role in guiding students through the transition to college and helping them connect with vital campus resources. According to Jen Bird, associate Dean of Students, this has made an impact.

“You could see and hear the ‘ah-ha’ moments as students shared their experiences of transitioning to college,” said Bird. “Additionally, I had students make appointments with me after that class who specifically said they came because they had met me and knew our office could help.”

HHP 102 is offered both on campus and online every semester at UW-Superior and is required within a student’s program of study within all majors.