MCC Improving Student Success with Navigators and One-Stop-Shop

Published on Thursday, November 14th, 2024

As part of its re-accreditation process earlier in the year, MCC has begun the exciting journey of implementing its Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) which addresses the student onboarding process. MCC’s QEP efforts involve the creation of both “Success Navigators” and a one-stop-shop for new students called The LEGEND Center.

PHOTO: MCC Success Navigators Tee Bowden, Jessica Hurley and Daniel Hatley

Success Navigators

Higher education research and best practices have shown that new students benefit greatly from the help of a dedicated staff member to guide them through the onboarding process. These “Success Navigators” are a vital component of MCC’s QEP, with students experiencing a seamless onboarding experience through focused assistance. The use of Success Navigators allows the onboarding process to move away from a “registration focused” mindset and better meet the need for wraparound services.

Each Success Navigator works collaboratively with the MCC Admissions staff to provide a quality front-door experience for students, providing one-on-one assistance with completing the College application, requesting academic transcripts, completing forms, applying for financial aid, choosing a program and registering for classes.

Through established relationships with Success Navigators, MCC students learn to navigate the various steps and process of college enrollment, know and understand the importance of college-related deadlines, understand the importance of a Plan of Study and which courses to take to complete their program, know how to best prepare for subsequent semester advising sessions, recognize challenges that may prevent them from reaching their goals and identify when and where to seek support.

The LEGEND Center

Instead of asking student to interact with multiple offices on campus during the onboarding process, MCC has established The LEGEND Center. Located at the main entrance to Blair Hall, The LEGEND Center is a one-stop-shop which serves as a centralized physical location for all students’ admissions, administrative, and support needs. Students are able to receive individual advising, register, get transcripts, pay tuition and more all in one centralized location. Not only is The LEGEND Center the place where students first meet their Success Navigator and begin their academic journey at MCC, it also serves students who are already enrolled and in need of support or assistance at any time during their semesters at MCC.