DDP STAs (Student Transition Assistants)

Congratulations on making your transition to GSU! Now that you are enrolled at GSU, we want to let you know about an additional resource available to you exclusively as a DDP student.

Below you can read more information about DDP Student Transition Assistants (STAs) and the assistance they can provide to you.

  • Who are STAs?

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    Student Transition Assistants are DDP students and graduates of the program who have been trained and are familiar with the various offices and services at GSU. They have the resources and information to help make your transition to GSU as smooth and comfortable as possible! STAs also serve as:

    • A thoughtful guide for Dual Degree Program students new at Governors State University;
    • A knowledgeable facilitator who provides pathways to people and resources;
    • A reliable and energetic role model and advocate for student success. 


    Fall 2021 Student Transition Assistants

    Abigail “Abi” Barber 

    Prairie State College alumnus

    Psychology

    Abarber@student.govst.edu

    James Langer 

    Kankakee Community College alumnus

    Criminal Justice

    jlanger@student.govst.edu

    Morgan Langer

    Kankakee Community College alumnus 

    Social Work

    mlanger@govst.edu  

    Ruben Lopez

    Prairie State College alumnus

    Psychology

    Rlopez5@student.govst.edu

     DDP STAs 2021

  • Where can I find the STAs at GSU?

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    During COVID-19 pandemic, the DDP Student Transition Assistants are available remotely!  During the Spring 2021 semester, the STAs will be holding Zoom office hours. 

    Zoom Office Hours 
    Mondays from 3:00-4:30 p.m. -- Request Zoom Link   
    Wednesdays from 12:00-2:00 p.m. -- Request Zoom Link 

    For more information or to make an appointment, please email dualdegree@govst.edu, or leave us a voicemail at (708) 235-7173 with your name, phone number, and current college/university you are attending. Please be sure to maintain a safe social distance when engaging with DDP staff on campus, and wear a recommended face covering while inside all GSU building(s).  

  • Do I need to make an appointment to meet with an STA?

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    No! Student Transition Assistants have open office hours each semester! However, if you would like to make an appointment, you are more than welcome to do so!

  • What can STAs help me with?

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    • Assistance with transition issues and concerns
    • Database of academic advisors and other useful contacts  
    • Lists of academic, financial, and personal support resources
    • Information on upcoming campus events, programs, and workshops
    • Contact and meeting information for GSU clubs and extracurricular activities
    • They also ALWAYS have FREE snacks…AND MUCH MORE!

  • What are the benefits of connecting with an STA?

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    • Personalized attention and valuable advice from an experienced, trained STA
    • Individualized help with the transfer process from another student who understands exactly what you are going through
    • Assistance with scholarship research and applications
    • Access to someone who can be a resource outside of regular business hours
    • Networking with other students and forming professional/social relationships
    • (Optional) workshops/activities that will help you add to your resume
    • Invitations to exclusive FUN events/social activities (i.e. Dave & Buster’s, bowling, etc.)
    • Extra application points if/when you apply to be a Student Transition Assistant in the future

  • What are the benefits of becoming an STA?

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     There are many benefits to becoming an STA:

    • Serving as an integral part of another student’s educational experience…. When you help others, you are helping yourself!  
    • Valuable leadership and paraprofessional experience to add to your resume  
    • Training on a wide range of topics from higher education resources to intercultural communication to financial management and much more  
    • Opportunity to coordinate community service projects  
    • Hourly pay (up to 30 hours per month) 
    • Meeting other students and forming professional/social relationships  
    • Invitations to exclusive FUN events/social activities (i.e. Dave & Buster’s, bowling, etc.)  
    • Networking with university administrators and higher education professionals from around the country

     

  • How can I get hired as an STA?

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    Student Transition Assistants are recruited and hired as year in March and August.  All applicants must meet all eligibility criteria and must be interviewed.  All DDP students who have transferred to GSU will be emailed the opportunity to apply!