The Student Success Center has welcomed a new director, Amy Kline, who began her role at the beginning of the year and is no stranger to supporting students academically.

In her previous role with the Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, where she dedicated 10 years to providing academic support for graduate students, Kline heard many accounts of Misericordia University alumni.

“I’ve seen so many Misericordia alum come through where I’ve previously worked and I’ve always been so impressed with how enthusiastic they were about their undergrad,” Kline said. “It really got me more interested in what’s been going on here at the university.”

Kline is prepared to learn the rhythm of being the center’s director and understanding how various aspects of the center operate.

“I’m definitely looking forward to this first full academic cycle so I can see everything, like events in the fall with orientation and FYE, and in May with graduation,” she said. “My overall goal would be to increase the usage of this welcoming place, so it’s seen as perfectly normal and acceptable in asking for help, whatever that help may be for someone, without the stigma attached.”

The Student Success Center can help students not only academically but by taking a holistic approach at an individual’s personal needs.

“The staff here is very creative with figuring out how to support students,” Kline said. “It’s not cookie cutter; what works for one student might not work for another student. I’d like to make students aware that we are an available resource and also want to normalize asking for help.

“If there’s something not working or not working well, we want students to be aware that we are here for them,” she continued. “The Student Success Center is there to help facilitate your learning experience and help you achieve the best version of you that you want to be.”

In her short time at Misericordia so far, Kline has realized one key aspect that holds the SSC together.

“The staff is incredibly dedicated, and they really are 100 percent student-centered to help in any way, shape or form,” she said

Although weather has not permitted much time outdoors, Kline enjoys when she is outside seeing the campus atmosphere.

“Seeing students go about campus has been wonderful,” she said. “Right when I started, there were two weeks before classes started, which was nice to get acclimated, but it’s been nice to see campus busy with students walking, student athletes on their way to practice, or coming to the SSC where students are hanging out and getting their work done.”

Kline looks forward to nicer weather so she can explore the campus and see students interacting more often.

As the new semester starts with a new director, students who utilize the resources available at the SSC and assist in tutoring are ready to start off the semester right.

“This is great news! I am glad the position has been filled with someone who has past experience in the educational environment,” said Christina McFadden, a junior occupational therapy major and student tutor. “Her role as the director of the Student Success Center is invaluable in supporting student academic experiences.”

Faculty at the center can provide numerous resources to students, such as academic support and coaching, accommodations for students with disabilities, and writing assistance.

They also have the assistance of student tutors like McFadden to help in leading studying sessions for those who are interested.

“I learn best when I can help teach others,” McFadden said. “I love sharing my resources and study strategies with other students as I know how appreciated this can be. Tutoring is a great way to review information and keep it recent in my head.

“The faculty and staff at the SSC are also extremely welcoming, supportive, and accommodating,” she continued. “They are more than willing to take time to answer your questions and direct you to the right resources.”