Pride Guidebook & Helpful Resources

College courses are much more demanding than high school, and it's up to you to make the right decisions and manage your time and responsibilities. The primary difference to understand is that in high school, you could simply follow rules that were strictly enforced. In college, you must choose responsibly, or you will face the consequences of actions or inactions. As a new student, you are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the academic resources Widener University has to offer. 

Academic Policies, Procedures & Regulations

Widener University strongly supports the concept of academic integrity and expects students and all other members of the Widener University community to be honest in all academic endeavors. 

Visit the academic catalog for more information regarding academic policies and procedures and academic regulations. 

Still have unanswered questions about our policies? Check out our Academic Resources, Policies, and FAQs page for more detailed information. 

Academic advisors help you translate your goals and interests into an effective and successful educational experience. They help you understand and navigate academic requirements, policies and procedures while guiding you in course selection. Make a point to see them at least once each semester to build a meaningful relationship.

To make the most of your advising experience, you should do the following:

• Meet with your advisor each semester (by October/March) before you register for classes.
• Make sure you're aware of important policies, procedures, academic dates and deadlines including withdrawal (course or university) and add/drop by checking the Undergraduate Catalog and Student Handbook found at https://catalog.widener.edu/. 
• Understand university, general education, and your academic program requirements. 
• Seek out information and make decisions regarding your academic/career goals. 
• Take advantage of campus resources. 
• Write down questions you have for your advisor and ask for help.
• Assume final responsibility for course scheduling, program planning, and successful completion of graduation requirements. 

For more information and access to other resources, visit Academic Advising, Coaching & Tutoring Support. 

The PRIDE Mentoring Program at Widener University offers ongoing support through:

• Individual and Group Workshops: Personal development activities and mentorship.
• Academic and Social Support: Helps improve academic performance, build connections, adjust to college life, and develop leadership skills.
• Retention and Graduation Enhancement: Designed to increase retention and graduation rates for new and transfer students.

Program features include:

• Weekly Mentor-Protege Meetings: Regular connections between students and mentors.
• Monthly Social Activities: Events planned by proteges and mentors.
• Community Service Projects: Opportunities to engage in service.
• Celebration and Recognition Events: Events to celebrate achievements.

Open to all incoming students committed to academic success, the program fosters social and cultural ties and enriches the undergraduate experience. For more information, visit the PRIDE mentoring program page or contact Kortne Smith, program coordinator, at kasmith1@widener.edu. 

• Go to class on time. That seems obvious, but it's important to remember. How can you be successful if you're not actually in class?
• Use a planner. It'll be your most important tool. It doesn't matter if you use your phone or buy a paper calendar, you're going to need a system to organize your class schedule, assignments, deadlines, involvements, jobs, and life in general. Pick whatever works for you—and use it! 
• Come to class prepared (every time!). Don't forget a writing utensil, notepad, syllabus, and your planner. 
• Participate in class. Turn your cell phone off, take careful notes, ask questions, and turn assignments in on time. 
• Get to know your professors. They're people too and can help you if you're struggling in class or you're just really interested in the topics they teach. Introduce yourself and visit during office hours. 
• Show respect to everyone. 

Looking for more tips and insights into the college experience? Discover more advice and guidance on our mySuccess blog.