The Student Success Fair was held in the McAfee Gymnasium Wednesday, allowing students to explore available resources here on campus. 

The fair had snacks and tables with resources that students could browse from departments across campus.  

Ensuring that students know where their classes are, how to change their major or even how to drop a class, the Academic Advising Services Office is a place to go for help.  

Academic advising is a part of the crucial foundation of being a student at Eastern.  

“Here at the Academic Advising office, we happily assist students with a multitude of things ranging from helping them drop classes, registering for summer classes, meeting with or changing an academic advisor, and making appointments to ask any questions regarding class schedules,” said Academic Advising Office Manager Beth Kastl.  

Affirming that students feel welcomed and making sure that staff are also welcoming towards students is something the staff at the advising center hold as a core belief, Kastl said.  

“I always make sure my door is open to anyone in need,” said Kastl. “I hold this quote dear to my heart, ‘Life is too short to be miserable.'”  

Academic advisors must take into account their own mental health to help students, said Academic Advisor Ly’Jerrick Ward. 

“In order to make sure I provide students with the utmost support, I make sure my mental health is intact by engaging in things that stimulate my mind, such as my faith,” Ward said.  

Students who need resources to help them whether academically or mentally can use TRIO.  

This organization focuses on supplying resources like financial support, disability support and giving a proper introduction to college life for first generation college students.  

“TRIO is one of the first three programs the U.S Department of Education started funding back in the 60s,” said TRIO Office Manager Lynn Griesemer. “While our mission is to help undergraduate students persist and graduate, we have our own computer lab where students are able to print free of charge and have two student tutors that work in our offices.”  

TRIO’ support comes with experience and knowledge, Griesemer said.  

Growing up, Griesemer said she was raised in a household where school was particularly important, with her dad being an elementary school principal. 

“What motivates me within my position is being able to give students what I also had growing up,” said Griesemer. “I also want students to ask anything about anywhere on campus here at TRIO.” 

Tyrone Naylor can be reached at 581-2812 or tnaylor@eiu.edu.