Fall Opportunity to Continue Upward Scholastically (FOCUS)

The FOCUS program was developed to give students every possible advantage as they embark upon their academic journey at Hope College. Students are invited to participate in FOCUS by Admissions and are paired with a Hope faculty or staff member who serves as the student’s academic advisor. Students meet weekly with their advisor and attend a workshop aimed at cultivating academic skills. FOCUS is not a remedial program, but rather one which provides additional counsel and support.  

Students invited to FOCUS are not guaranteed continued enrollment — the fall semester is a trial period. At the conclusion of the fall semester, FOCUS students’ performance is evaluated and a decision regarding continued enrollment is made.

How We Can Help

• Support your transition to college
• Practice academic skills and habits
• One-on-one, individual mentoring with a FOCUS advisor 
• Encourage advocacy skills
• Cultivate a community and sense of belonging
• Bridge the gap between student and college resources

Who Can Participate

• Invited students only — if you are offered participation in the FOCUS program, you will receive notification and more information through the Admission process to Hope College

What Can You Expect

As a FOCUS student, you will receive weekly, one-on-one advising with an assigned FOCUS advisor. Together, you will work on building academic skills, transitioning to college, and accountability for coursework and class commitments. You will also attend a weekly workshop to learn about campus resources and develop your academic skills. Additionally, you and your advisor will receive periodic feedback from professors about your class progress and performance.

Student Responsibilities

• Attend weekly FOCUS advising meetings
• Attend weekly FOUCS workshop
• Follow up on assigned tasks and goals
• Be honest in your self-reflection and have open communication with your FOCUS advisor so they can best support you
• Be open minded and try new routines, habits and practices to encourage change
• Take responsibility for your education (attend classes, complete assignments, utilize campus resources)

FOCUS Advisor Responsibilities

• Meet with students throughout the semester and summarize meetings (including goals, follow-up tasks and any areas of concern)
• Periodically reaching out to instructors for student’s class progress and permformance
• Have open and honest communication with students
• Refer students to campus resources
• Continued professional development 
• Commitment to FERPA rules and regulations