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Office of Student Success

Enrollment Management

Student Success Help Desk

group of students
Welcome to the Student Success Help Desk! We believe in your potential and are here to empower you every step of the way on your journey to success. Whether you're seeking academic support, personal development resources, or guidance through challenges, we're dedicated to helping you thrive. Explore our resources, connect with our team, and let us help you succeed! If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here for you. Let’s achieve greatness together!

 

Your Success Team

 

Student Resources

 

General Help & FAQs

 

Contact Us

Identify Your Success Team

Academic Advisors will:

  • Guide you in course selection based on your goals, degree requirements, and prerequisites.
  • Help you plan your academic schedule and stay on track for graduation.
  • Assist with course registration, explain prerequisites, and ensure you meet deadlines.
  • Provide advice on academic policies, including grades, standing, and credit hours.
  • Support you in exploring majors, career paths, and academic challenges, and connect you to campus resources for additional help.
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Academic Coaches will:

  • Help improve your learning strategies, academic performance, and overall experience.
  • Provide personalized guidance on improving grades, study habits, and time management.
  • Assist in developing effective study techniques, organization, and note-taking skills.
  • Support you in setting and achieving short-term and long-term academic goals.
  • Encourage motivation, accountability, and teach stress management techniques to avoid burnout.

Academic coaching is different from tutoring, as it focuses on helping students develop the skills and habits they need to succeed academically, rather than providing direct subject-specific instruction.

Career Consultants will:

  • Guide you in exploring and planning your career based on your skills, interests, and values.
  • Advise on job search strategies, including resumes, cover letters, networking, and using job boards.
  • Help prepare for job interviews and present yourself professionally.
  • Assist in setting career goals and creating action plans to achieve them.
  • Provide advice on skills development, certifications, and building a strong personal brand.
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College Success Coaches will:

  • Help you adjust to the demands of college life and identify personal and academic goals.
  • Assist in creating actionable plans to achieve your goals and hold you accountable.
  • Support personal growth by promoting emotional well-being, leadership, and confidence.
  • Provide regular check-ins to monitor progress and offer encouragement.
  • Guide you in balancing commitments and connect you to campus resources.

Financial Aid Advisors will:

  • Assist with completing financial aid applications, such as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the Texas Application for State Financial Aid (TASFA), and submitting required documentation.
  • Inform you about available financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study.
  • Review your application, determine eligibility, and help you understand your award package.
  • Advise on how and when financial aid is disbursed and help manage funds for tuition and expenses.
  • Offer guidance on loan options, repayment plans, and financial management, including handling unexpected circumstances.
  • Ensure you meet eligibility requirements, including maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), and assist with appeals if needed.
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Student Resources

Student Resources

General Help & Frequently Asked Questions

  • Here are some common college terms that every student should be familiar with:

    Familiarizing yourself with these terms can make navigating college life and academics much easier!

     

    Academic Terminology

    1. GPA (Grade Point Average): A numerical representation of a student's academic performance on a 4.0 scale.

    2. Good Academic Standing: This academic status refers to a student having a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.

    3. Academic Probation: A status given to students whose cumulative GPA falls below 2.0, often requiring them to improve their grades in subsequent semesters or risk suspension or dismissal.

    4. Credit Hour: A unit of measurement for course workload.

    5. Semester/Term: Function as a measurement of time in college. Each semester or term can range from 5-16 weeks.

    6. Academic Year: The combination of fall, spring, and summer semesters. Bachelor’s degree programs typically require four academic years to complete.

    7. Audit: To take a class without receiving a grade or credit for it.

    8. Capstone: A final project or course designed to showcase a student's learning and skills, often in the final year.

    9. Fulfills Requirement: A course or activity that counts toward fulfilling a graduation requirement, such as a general education or major requirement.

    10. Major: The primary field of study that a student focuses on during their college education.

    11. Minor: A secondary field of study that a student can choose alongside their major.

    12. Double Major: A student pursuing two primary fields of study, requiring more coursework and planning.

    13. Course Load: The number of credits a student is enrolled in for a particular semester.

    14. Drop/Withdraw: To officially remove oneself from a class after the drop period ends, often impacting grades or academic record.

    15. Deans' List: To qualify for the Deans’ List, an undergraduate student must carry a full course load of 12 semester hours or more and have a grade point average of 3.5 or higher for that semester.

    16. President's List: Undergraduate students who qualify for the President’s List carry a full course load of 12 semester hours or more with grade point averages of 4.0 for that semester. 

    17. Honors Program: A specialized academic track for students who maintain higher academic standards and complete additional coursework.

    18. Accelerated Program: A program that is completed in a shorter time (5-8 week increments) than traditional programs. These programs normally last 2-3 years instead of the traditional four.

    19. Prerequisite: A course or requirement that must be completed before enrolling in a more advanced course.

    20. Core Curriculum: A set of general education courses that all students are required to take, regardless of their major.

    21. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory: A pass/fail class is a course that does not use the standard A-F grading scale but instead offers only a satisfactory (pass) or unsatisfactory (fail) grade.

    22. Full-Time: To qualify as a full-time student, learners must take a minimum number of credits per semester. At least 12 credits to qualify at the undergraduate level, and at least 9 credits to qualify at the graduate level.

    23. Syllabus: A document provided by professors that outlines course content, policies, assignments, and grading.

    24. Midterm/Final Exam: Exams taken at the middle or end of a semester to assess understanding of the course material.

    25. Professor/Instructor: A faculty member responsible for teaching a course.

    26. TA (Teaching Assistant): A graduate student or advanced undergraduate who assists the professor with teaching responsibilities like grading and leading discussion sections.

     

    Campus Life & Social Terminology

    1. Dorm/Residence Hall: On-campus housing where students live during the school year.

    2. RA (Resident Assistant): A student leader who helps manage dorm life and enforces housing rules.

    3. Greek Life: Student organizations based on fraternities (for men) and sororities (for women), often centered around social events, community service, and leadership.

    4. Club: A student-run organization focused on specific interests, activities, or causes, such as debate, arts, or community service.

    5. Setzer Student Center: A central building where students can gather, eat, study, and participate in various activities.

    6. Commute: The act of traveling to and from campus (often referring to off-campus students who do not live in dorms).

    7. Freshman/Sophomore/Junior/Senior: Terms referring to a student's classification in college based on the number of credits earned. (Freshman = 0-29, Sophomore = 30-59, Junior = 60-89, and Senior 90-120)

    8. First-Generation Student: To qualify as a first-generation college student, learners must be the first individual in their immediate family to pursue higher education.

    9. Nontraditional Student: This term typically means a learner who is not a first-time student entering a bachelor’s degree program directly from high school.

    10. Student Government: An elected body of students that represents the student body and organizes events or advocates for student interests.

    11. Intramural Sports: Sports leagues or competitions within the college, usually for fun and open to all students, regardless of skill level.

    12. Rec Center (Recreation Center): A campus facility offering fitness and sports equipment, exercise classes, and recreational activities.

    13. Student Health Center: A campus facility that provides medical care and health services to students.

    14. Cafeteria/Dining Hall: The primary on-campus food service area where students eat meals, often offering meal plans.

    15. Spirit Week: A week of activities, usually around a big event like homecoming, designed to boost school spirit and foster a sense of community.

    16. Orientation: An event or series of events designed to introduce new students to campus life, resources, and policies.

    17. Study Group: A small group of students who meet to discuss course material and prepare for exams together.

    18. Supplemental Instruction (S.I.): A support program that helps students do better in tough courses. It offers study sessions led by students who have already taken and done well in the course. These sessions are held outside of regular class hours.

    19. Office Hours: Specific hours when professors are available to meet with students for questions or discussion about course material.

    20. All-Nighter: Staying up all night to study or finish assignments.

    21. Plagiarism: Using someone else’s work or ideas without proper citation, which is a serious academic violation.

    22. Burnout: A state of physical, mental, or emotional exhaustion caused by excessive workload or stress.

     

    Administrative & Financial Terminology

    1. Registrar: The office that manages student records, enrollment, and registration for courses.

    2. Academic Advisor: A faculty or staff member who helps students plan their courses and navigate their academic path.

    3. Transcript: An official record of a student's academic history, including courses taken and grades earned.

    4. Financial Aid: Funding available to students to help pay for college, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.

    5. Cashier Services (Bursar): The office in charge of tuition billing, payments, and student accounts.

    6. FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid): A form used to apply for federal financial aid each year.

    7. TASFA (Texas Application for State Financial Aid): A form used to apply for state financial aid each year when a student is not eligible to apply for federal financial aid due to their citizenship status.

    8. FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act): A U.S. law that protects the privacy of student education records.

    9. Scholarship: A financial award for students based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria.

    10. Work-Study: A federal or institutional program that provides part-time employment for students with financial need.

    11. Loan: Money borrowed to pay for college that must be repaid with interest, typically after graduation.

    12. Tuition: The fee charged by the college for instruction, usually based on the number of credits taken.

    13. Room and Board: Fees for on-campus housing (room) and meals (board).

    14. Financial Aid Package: The total amount of financial aid a student receives, which can include grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study.

    15. Out-of-State Tuition: A higher tuition rate charged to students who live outside the state where they are attending school.

    16. In-State Tuition: A lower tuition rate available to students who are residents of the state where they are attending school.

    17. Registration: The process of signing up for courses each semester.

    18. Drop/Add Period: A window at the beginning of the semester when students can add or drop classes without penalty.

    19. Withdraw: A student choosing to end their enrollment status with an institution during a specific semester.

     

    Career and Networking Terms

    1. Career Services: A campus office that helps students with career planning, resume writing, job searching, and internships.

    2. Networking: Building professional relationships with peers, professors, and alumni that can help with future career opportunities.

    3. Alumni: Graduates of a college or university.

    4. Resume: A summary of a student’s academic and work experience, often used to apply for internships or jobs.

    5. Interview: A formal meeting where a candidate is questioned to determine their suitability for a job or internship.

    6. Job Fair: An event where companies recruit students for job and internship opportunities.

    7. LinkedIn: A professional networking platform used to connect with employers, alumni, and colleagues.

    8. Networking Event: Events, often sponsored by alumni or career services, designed to connect students with professionals and potential employers.

     

    Miscellaneous Terms

    1. Study Abroad: Programs that allow students to take courses in a foreign country for a semester or year.

    2. Internship: A temporary job or work experience related to a student’s field of study, often used to gain hands-on experience.

    3. Externship: Externships are similar to internships but typically last a shorter amount of time and do not provide college credit. Externships allow for job shadowing before graduation.

    4. Independent Study: Working with a faculty advisor and other academics, students can create their own course of independent study based on selected readings and assignments.

    5. Capstone Project/Course: A final project or course, typically completed during the last year of college, that summarizes a student's learning and achievements.

    6. Co-Op: A work-study program where students alternate between studying and working in a job related to their major.

  • Â鶹ӳ»­Ó°Òô & Courses FAQs

    1. How do I register for classes?

      • Registration is usually done through your Self-Service Banner account, where you can choose courses based on your major and academic schedule.

        Registration Guide

    2. What is a syllabus, and why is it important?

      • A syllabus is a document that outlines the course structure, grading policy, assignments, and important dates. It’s essential to understand the expectations for the course.

    3. What is the add/drop period?

      • This is a time early in the semester when you can change your courses without academic penalty, such as dropping or adding classes.

      • But be careful! Each part of a term within a semester has individual add/drop deadlines.

        Academic Calendar

    4. How do I calculate my GPA?

      • GPA is typically calculated on a 4.0 scale, with letter grades assigned numerical values (e.g., A = 4.0, B = 3.0). Multiply the credit hours by the grade points for each class and divide by the total credit hours.

    5. What is a meta major?

      • A meta major is a group of academic programs connected by similar career paths that help students develop social and academic connections as they work towards achieving their professional goals.

    6. What are Cardinal Communities?

      • Cardinal Communities (CC) provides individual and group mentoring for freshmen/first-year college students. Each CC group consists of 35 students, a peer mentor, and a faculty/staff mentor based on their meta major. CC students gain information and build networks by connecting to fellow LU students, campus resources and services, their major/academic department, student organizations, and more.

        Learn More

    7. How do I find the classroom where my class is?

      • When you look at your schedule, the building and room number for each class are listed by the course. Please also refer to the campus map for additional assistance. An interactive map is also available!

      • Helpful tip: If a room number begins with a "2", it is located on the second floor.

    8. Can I retake a class if I fail?

      • Yes, students are allowed to retake a class if they fail. The new and higher grade would replace the old one in GPA calculations.

        View Grade Replacement Policy

    9. What’s a "hold" on my account?

      • A "hold" is a restriction placed on your account by the registrar, financial aid, advising, or other departments (e.g., unpaid tuition or incomplete paperwork). Holds can prevent you from registering for classes, receiving transcripts, or accessing certain services until resolved.

        Learn More

    10. What happens if I miss a class?

      • If you miss a class, you should contact your professor or classmates to catch up on the material. Some professors have policies about missing classes, so it’s important to check the course syllabus for attendance requirements.

    11. What is academic advising, and how often should I meet with an advisor?

      • Academic advising helps you plan your coursework, select your major or minor, and stay on track for graduation. It’s recommended to meet with an advisor at least once a semester, especially before registering for classes.

    Don't forget more helpful information can be found under Academic Support located in the above Student Resources section.
  • Financial Aid & Tuition FAQs

    1. How do I apply for financial aid?

      • You need to fill out the to apply for financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and loans.

      • If you do not qualify for federal financial aid due to your current citizenship status, then you may be eligible to apply for .

    2. How do I know if I’m eligible for financial aid?

      • To determine eligibility, fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Your college's financial aid office will use your FAFSA data to assess need-based aid, including grants, loans, and work-study.

    3. What is the difference between a loan, a scholarship, and a grant?

      • A loan is a sum of money borrowed by one party (the borrower) from another party (the lender) under the condition that it will be paid back, typically with interest, over a specified period of time.

      • Scholarships are often based on merit (academic, athletic, etc.) and do not require repayment.

      • Grants are usually need-based and do not require repayment.

    4. What are the common types of student loans?

      • Subsidized Loans: Federal loans where the government pays the interest while the student is in school, during the grace period, and during deferment periods.

      • Unsubsidized Loans: Federal loans that accrue interest while the student is in school and during other periods.

      • PLUS Loans: Federal loans for parents of dependent undergraduate students or for graduate/professional students.

      • Private Student Loans: Loans from private lenders that vary widely based on creditworthiness and other factors.

    5. What is the difference between federal and private loans?

      • Federal loans are offered by the government, often with lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options.

      • Private loans are offered by banks or other financial institutions and may have higher interest rates and less flexible repayment terms.

    6. How do I pay my tuition?

      • Tuition can be paid through the Cashier Office, typically via an online portal, by check, or through a payment plan.

      • Tuition can also be paid through any awarded money such as loans, grants, or scholarships you have accepted through the Financial Aid Office.

      • You also have the option to work on- or off-campus to help cover any of your educational expenses.

    Cashier Services Payment Plans & Options

    1. What is work-study?

      • Work-study is a federal program that provides part-time jobs to students with financial needs, allowing them to earn money for tuition and living expenses.

    2. What do I do if I can’t afford my textbooks?

      • You can look for used or digital textbooks, rent them, or check if the library has copies available. Some students also share textbooks.

      • Helpful Tip: Check with the Office of Financial Aid about the option of receiving a book voucher to help cover the costs of your books. A book voucher would most likely utilize any funds you had left over after being applied to your account to cover your tuition and fees.

    3. What happens if I miss a tuition payment?

      • Missing a payment may result in a late fee, a hold placed on your account, or even being dropped from classes.

      • It's important to contact the Cashier Services at either (409) 880-8390 or cashiering@lamar.edu if you're having trouble making a payment.

    4. How do I get a refund for my excess financial aid?

      • If you have financial aid that exceeds the cost of tuition, housing, and other fees, the school typically issues a refund, either through a check or direct deposit.

     

    Learn More about Student Aid

     

    Don't forget more helpful information can be found under Financial Support located in the above Student Resources section.

  • Campus Life & Housing FAQs

    1. How do I find housing on campus?

    2. What is a meal plan?

      • A meal plan is a prepaid system that allows students to purchase food at dining halls or campus eateries. Plans typically vary by the number of meals per week.

    3. What should I bring to my dorm room?

      • Essentials include bedding, toiletries, clothes, school supplies, and a small refrigerator or microwave (if allowed). Check with the housing office or Residence Life Handbook for specific dorm guidelines.

    4. Can I live off-campus?

      • All First-Year students are required to reside in University housing and to maintain a Residential dining plan during their first year, which will normally include the Fall and Spring semesters.

      • A First-Year student is classified as a student who has graduated from high school within the previous academic year.

      • Students wanting an exception to this policy may submit a waiver request for review at the Housing & Residence Life Office.

     

     Learn More about Housing & Residence Life 

    Review Residence Life Handbook

     

    Don't forget more helpful information can be found under Other Support Services & Resources in the above Student Resources section.

  • Social & Extracurricular Activities FAQs

    1. How do I join a club or organization?

      • You can join a by attending an organization fair or contacting the club’s president or advisor for more information.

    2. What is Greek life?

      • Greek life refers to fraternities and sororities, which are social organizations that often host events, participate in philanthropy, and provide networking opportunities.

    3. How can I meet new people on campus?

      • Joining clubs, attending events, participating in intramural sports, or attending orientation activities are great ways to meet other students.

    4. How do I find out about campus events?

    5. What is an "organization fair"?

      • An organization fair is an event where student organizations set up booths to recruit new members. It’s a great way to learn about different clubs and find ones that interest you.

    6. How can I get involved in leadership on campus?

      • You can join a student organization, run for a leadership position in a club, or get involved in student government. We also offer leadership training programs.

    7. Are there any volunteering opportunities on campus?

     

    Learn More about Student Life

    Learn More about Student Services

      

    Don't forget more helpful information can be found under Other Support Services & Resources in the above Student Resources section.

  • Health & Well-being FAQs

    1. How do I see a doctor on campus?

      • Medical Services at the Student Health Center offers services including in-person appointments, telehealth, online scheduling, and an onsite pharmacy.

      • Our Student Health Center at Â鶹ӳ»­Ó°Òô is home to highly skilled, educated, and experienced nurse practitioners, nurses, certified medical assistants, counselors, health educators, a physician, and a pharmacist, among many other talents.

    2. What should I do if I’m feeling overwhelmed or stressed?

      • Our Student Health Center offers counseling services, peer support groups, or wellness programs to help with stress, anxiety, or other mental health concerns.

    3. What is a student ID, and what can I use it for?

      • A student ID is your official identification on campus. It can be used for access to campus buildings, libraries, dining halls, and even discounts at local businesses.

    4. What should I do if I feel homesick?

      • Feeling homesick is common. Reach out to friends or family for support, get involved in campus activities, and visit the Student Health Center if you're struggling emotionally.

    5. What is student health insurance, and do I need it?

      • Student health insurance is a plan that provides coverage for medical services while you're enrolled. The is optional, but you can often opt for a plan through your parents or purchase private insurance.

    6. How can I get involved in mental health support on campus?

      • The Student Health Center offers a variety of counseling services that could be provided both in-person or virtually. You can also speak to a counselor if you need help managing anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges.

    7. How do I access prescription medications on campus?

      • The Student Health Center operates a Class "D" pharmacy, offering low-cost prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and basic health supplies to our students. Many medications ordered by our practitioners are available within the clinic pharmacy.

      • You can also use local pharmacies or online services to have prescriptions filled.

     

    Learn More about the Student Health Center

     

    Don't forget more helpful information can be found under Mental Health & Well-being Support located in the above Student Resources section.

  • Career & Future Planning FAQs

    1. How do I get an internship?

      • Internships can be found through the Career Services office, online job boards, or networking with professors and alumni in your field.

    2. When should I start thinking about my career?

      • It's never too early! You can start by meeting with your academic advisor, attending career fairs, or participating in internships during your sophomore or junior year.

    3. How do I write a resume?

      • Your resume should highlight your education, relevant experiences, and skills. Our Career Services offer resume workshops or one-on-one sessions.

    4. How do I find job opportunities on campus?

      • The Career Services office and the Setzer Student Center often post on-campus job listings. You can also check bulletin boards or network with faculty and staff to find openings.

    5. Should I attend career fairs?

      • Yes, career fairs are great opportunities to network with potential employers, learn about internships or job openings, and practice your interviewing skills.

    Student & Alumni Resources

      

    Don't forget more helpful information can be found under Academic Support located in the above Student Resources section.

  • General College Life FAQs

    1. What is orientation, and do I have to attend?

      • Orientation is an event designed to introduce you to college life, including resources, academic expectations, and social opportunities. Attending new student orientation is not only required to receive your course schedule but also to ensure a smooth transition from high school to college life.

    2. Can I change my major?

      • Yes, students are allowed to change majors. However, it’s important to speak with an academic advisor to understand how the change might affect your graduation timeline.

    3. How do I prepare for finals?

      • Start studying early, break down your material into manageable chunks, attend review sessions, and practice with old exams if available. Make sure to get plenty of rest before the exams.

      • LU Fact: Academic Coaching is a free service offered to undergraduate students at Â鶹ӳ»­Ó°Òô. Peer academic coaches meet with students individually, either online or in person, to facilitate academic success by helping you manage reading materials, track schedules and assignments, organize class notes, and much more.

    4. How do I stay organized in college?

      • Use a planner, calendar, or app to keep track of assignments, exams, and deadlines. Set reminders and prioritize tasks to avoid procrastination.

      • Helpful Tip: Utilize LU's Academic Coaching services to help you stay organized and balance campus life!

    5. What do I do if I’m struggling academically?

      • Seek help early by talking to your professors, attending tutoring sessions, joining study groups, or reaching out to academic advisors for support.

      • Helpful Tip: Each college has a Success Coach to help you every step of the way while at Â鶹ӳ»­Ó°Òô. Regardless of whether you are facing challenges or simply need assistance in finding the best resources that meet your needs, your Success Coach is here to help!

    6. I’m transferring into LU from a community college or other university. Who can help me?

      • LU's Transfer Team is here to assist future and current transfer students through the process of transferring to Â鶹ӳ»­Ó°Òô. This includes admission support, selecting the best-fit major to continue your studies, and transferring over as many credits as possible to be applied to your new degree program.

     

    Learn More about New Student Orientation

    Learn More about Academic Coaching & Tutoring Support 

    Learn More about Success Coaching

     

    Don't forget more helpful information can be found under Academic Support located in the above Student Resources section.

Contact Us

Office of Student Success

Mailing Address
Â鶹ӳ»­Ó°Òô
P.O. Box 10079
Beaumont, Texas 77710
Office Hours
Monday - Friday
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Phone: (409) 880-7267