In college, some students may need a helping hand or guidance along the way. The StepUP program at Park University is one of several services provided for students.

Beginning in 2003, the program was originally called TRiO and it was under the category of student support services.

“It’s called StepUP because we want students to step up and succeed,” said Debra McArthur, director of Academic Support Services.

Students can receive help from a mentor in all areas of their academic life including time management, goal setting and improving their study skills.

Additionally, mentors can help students with filing grade appeals, referring students to counseling services or helping steer them toward the Career Development Center for job placement services.

Guidance and motivation to graduate and keep their GPA up is what a mentor focus on for students in the program.

“I like to give motivational speeches,” said James Jones, graduate assistant mentor.

Along with giving one on one support, Jones also attends a student’s games if they are athletes and also attend graduation.

“Helping somebody else helps me,” he said.

The best part about Jones job as mentor is when the student graduates.

“Walking across the stage and hearing them say thank you (is the best part),” he said.