SEP Frequently Asked Questions
How is a student selected to participate in the Scholastic Enhancement Program? - Students are selected based on their application materials. The criteria used to select students includes ACT/SAT test scores, class rank, high school grades in academic subjects, involvement in extracurricular activities, work experience, high school academic program, essay, recommendation from high school counselor/teacher, and declared major. Some or all of these factors contribute to students' selection into the program.
What are the requirements for participation in the program? - Based on a student's admission status to the University, participation in the Scholastic Enhancement Program is mandatory. Students will be required to work with the Scholastic Enhancement Program for a minimum of two years. Program coordinators will assist in the development o fan educational plan that will provide them wiht the opportunity for successful academic achievement at Miami. Requirements may include: regularly scheudled meetings with program coordinators, attending all scheduled activities, following a balanced course load, accepting a schedule of courses, consulting with the SEP office prior to making course or program changes, utilizing tutoring in selected courses, participating in other specific academci support programs based on an assessment of skills and/or needs, and maintaining consistent class attendance as well as satisfactory academic performance.
Who else will know that I am participating in this program? Outside of the Learning Center, the only other individuals who will be made aware of your status in the program will be faculty, staff, and those individuals who may provide you with additional services. These may include academic advising, tutoring, peer mentoring, etc.
Will participating in the Scholastic Enhancement Program mean I will be separated from other students? No. One of the unique features of this program is that it is structured to assist you through the established services already in place at the University. As a first-year student, you will either commute from home or reside on campus. Upper-class SEP students have the same off campus living options as the general student population.
Will participating in this program prevent me from participating in extracurricular activities such as sports, Greek life, student government, and other student activities? No! The Scholastic Enhancement Program is designed to bridge academics and extracurricular activities. We recognize that both contribute to the development of the intellect. We are looking to facilitate your ability to do both while progressing toward your goal of graduation.
What will happen (to me) if I do not adhere to the program guidelines once I am enrolled? If you disregard the requirements of the Scholastic Enhancement Program, you will be violating the terms of your admission to the university. As a result, evaluations will be made to determine whether the Scholastic Enhancement office will place a registration hold on your record. This will prevent you from registering for future Miami courses. this measure is to ensure your commitment to and success in the program.
What will I be required to do? Since the basis of the program is to develop an educational plan that meets your individual needs, it is difficult to be specific. In general, however, you will be required to do the following:
- Accept the offer of admission by confirming your intent to enroll.
- Attend the Summer Orientation Program.
- Complete the SEP assessment instruments in reading, writing and learning skills.
- Meet with the SEP coordinators during Summer Orientation to review your assessment results and determine your educational plan.
- Enroll in EDL 110. The University and the Student, a one credit hour orientation course to the University and its resources.
- Agree that information regarding your progress may be shared with your parents/guardians.
- Agree to meet with the SEP coordinators at least three times each semester to review progress.
- Agree to attend all classes regularly and notify the SEP office prior to making any changes to your course schedule.
- Adhere to the SEP guidelines, which may include a specific schedule of courses, a limited course load, tutoring, meetings, activities, etc.
Will I be able to take regular academic classes? Absolutely! Remember, the goal of the program is to aid you in completing your chosen degree program. You cannot achieve such a goal without fulfilling the academic requirements for a degree. However, based on the assessment of your skills, it will be essential for you to secure additional help for certain classes. This may be accomplished thorugh individual tutoring and/or supplemental instruction.
What will the assessment of my skills entail? In order to determine the best educational plan for you, it is necessary that you participate in this data gathering process. You will be required to complete several program assessments covering your writing, reading, mathematics, and learning skills. SEP staff will discuss the results with you. Test scores will be used in the development of your course schedule. These assessments are generally administered during summer orientation and/or at the start of the fall semester. Foreign language and math placement test results are also needed to help you select the most appropriate classes in these subjects.