ABSTRACT
Fitchburg State University's belonging work is grounded in a growth mindset, becoming a student-ready campus, supporting first-generation students in navigating institutions of higher education and belonging. This chapter highlights two recent initiatives implemented using this foundation: new sessions at orientation focused on growth mindset, a sense of belonging, and navigating the Fitchburg State environment, and a mentoring program that targets a particular population of students. In 2016, a team of staff from student affairs and academic affairs led the redevelopment of Fitchburg State’s summer and fall orientation programs. The goal of this initiative was to create a balanced program focusing on curricular, cocurricular, and personal transition to Fitchburg State, as well as increased sense of belonging and, ultimately, retention. Decoding College was designed to help students navigate their early days at Fitchburg State by introducing terminology, tips, and information that help all students succeed and by normalizing the many feelings new students may be experiencing.
