Saint Joseph’s University: Supporting Student Success

At Saint Joseph’s University, a private Jesuit university in Philadelphia, student success isn’t left to chance. Whether it’s first-year students adjusting to college life, upperclassmen regaining academic footing, or neurodiverse students finding structured support, SJU offers a holistic network of resources designed to ensure every student has the tools to thrive.

Nestled in the heart of Philadelphia, SJU is home to approximately 4,500 undergraduates. Despite its urban location, the tight-knit campus fosters a strong sense of community, where students benefit from small class sizes, individualized support, and close faculty relationships. Rooted in Jesuit values, the university is committed to academic excellence, social justice, and personalized student support, ensuring that no student has to navigate challenges alone.

The ASPIRE Program: Empowering Neurodiverse Students

One of the fastest-growing student support initiatives at Saint Joseph’s University is the ASPIRE program, designed specifically for students on the autism spectrum. In just five years, ASPIRE has expanded from 26 to 80 students, offering a structured support system that focuses on executive functioning skills, social development, and academic success. Students in the program receive weekly one-on-one coaching, peer mentorship, and structured skill-building classes, all designed to help them adapt to the demands of college life.

For those who prefer additional structure, a dedicated residence hall option is available, fostering an environment that balances independence with built-in support. Many students remain engaged with ASPIRE throughout their four years, developing essential skills that will benefit them long after graduation.

Student Disability Services: Ensuring Equal Access

Beyond ASPIRE, the Office of Student Disability Services ensures that all students who require accommodations have access to the support they need. With resources available across SJU’s three campuses, students can take advantage of academic accommodations, assistive technology, and structured study plans. Through the Starfish Early Alert System, professors can identify students who may be struggling early in the semester, allowing Student Success staff to intervene before challenges become overwhelming. This proactive approach helps students stay on track academically while also fostering self-advocacy and independence.

College Transition Coaching: Personalized Guidance for Every Student

Adjusting to college can be a challenge, and Saint Joseph’s University recognizes that each student’s experience is unique. For those seeking additional guidance, College Transition Coaching offers one-on-one mentorship with highly trained professionals.

While the program is primarily geared toward first-year students, upperclassmen can also participate, albeit with fewer sessions available. Students meet weekly or biweekly with a mentor, focusing on time management, organization, self-advocacy, and academic planning. Peer tutoring is also available, providing additional academic support alongside individualized coaching.

The Rebound Program: Helping First-Year Students Regain Their Academic Footing

For some students, the first semester of college doesn’t go as planned. The Rebound Program was created to help first-year and transfer students who earn below a 2.0 GPA or complete fewer than 12 credits in their first semester.

The program pairs students with mentors and offers weekly workshops focused on study strategies, goal setting, and time management. By providing structured academic support throughout the spring semester, the program ensures that students can rebuild their confidence, refine their study habits, and ultimately get back on track toward graduation.

PASS Program: Supporting Upperclassmen on Academic Probation

For upperclassmen who find themselves on academic probation, the Probation Academic Success Strategies (PASS) program offers a structured path to returning to good academic standing.

Each student in the program is paired with a dedicated mentor to develop an individualized Plan for Success, outlining specific academic goals and action steps. Students meet monthly with their mentors throughout the semester, assessing progress and adjusting strategies as needed. By focusing on long-term academic success, PASS helps students not only recover from setbacks but also develop stronger habits for the remainder of their college careers.

A Holistic Approach to Student Success

At Saint Joseph’s University, student success goes beyond coursework. Through ASPIRE’s specialized programming, College Transition Coaching’s personalized mentorship, and the structured academic recovery provided by the Rebound and PASS programs, SJU ensures that students receive individualized support tailored to their needs.

With a university-wide commitment to mentorship, accessibility, and academic excellence, Saint Joseph’s fosters an environment where students can overcome challenges, grow academically, and build the skills they need for a successful future.

Written By: Ildiko Szekely

Learn more about how we can help support your student’s college transition by scheduling an introductory call with Ildi Szekely.