- What is the Office of Academic Support (OAS)?
The OAS Program provides support and enrichment services to all first generation and/or underrepresented University of Florida students. In addition, OAS provides the primary academic support services to approximately 150-400 incoming freshmen each year. These services provide students with the academic and social skills necessary to reach their full potential and graduate from the University of Florida. OAS Services are offered and accessible to all UF students. OAS works in conjunction with several integral offices including the Offices of Admissions, Dean of Students, the Office of Academic Technology, Student Financial Affairs, Housing and Residence Education, AIM and the Academic Advisement Center, to offer a thorough introduction and orientation to UF.
- Where is OAS located and what are the office hours?
The OAS offices are located on the 3rd floor of Little Hall in Suite 311. Office hours are from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm from Monday to Friday.
- What programs & services are available?
Support services and programs offered include academic tutoring, peer mentoring and academic workshops. The workshops and learning experiences cover topics such as study skills, time management, career planning, library skills, stress management and test anxiety. These activities are designed to facilitate first generation and/or underrepresented students' successful negotiation of any and all processes of the University of Florida. In addition, to stimulate their use of and participation in activities that enhance academic progress.
- How do I become a part of the program?
First year students can register for the Transition and Mentorship program before they begin their Summer B or Fall Semester. Students who attend the Transition Program can take advantage of the peer mentoring program. All UF students are welcomed to participate in OAS's free academic tutoring, workshops and social events available throughout the year. Visit the OAS office for further details.
- Who can use OAS services?
All UF students that think they will benefit are encouraged to take advantage of OAS services.
- Is there a fee for OAS services?
All OAS services are offered free of charge.
- When will I meet my mentor?
Mentors are assigned prior to the transition program and students meet their mentors during the transition program. If students are unable to attend the transition program, OAS will arrange for an individual appointment and meetings to assign a peer mentor. Peer Mentors are campus leaders who have successfully transitioned here at the University of Florida. Their purpose is to assist students in making a smooth transition to the university environment. This relationship begins during the summer or fall transition programs and continues throughout the freshman academic year. Interested students that are unable to register prior to the transition program can email oas@aa.ufl.edu or call the office at (352) 392-0788 with their contact information and major or career choice and a mentor will be assigned.
- How long will I have a mentor?
The relationship between a mentor and student is highly dependent on the student's preferences. The program is designed to provide a mentor for the student’s first year. When strong bonds are made and the mentor is utilized, the relationship can last as long as both mentor and student chooses.
- How do I become a Peer Mentor?
The Peer Mentor selection process begins in late fall with an initial OAS Peer Mentor Information Session. Applications are made available at this time and will also be available on the OAS website. In the spring, OAS offers a final Peer Mentor Information Session and applications are due the last week of January. Interested students that submit their applications will partake in a succession of interviews to demonstrate that have successfully navigated the academic rigors and transitioned into UF. Mentors are chosen by the second week of March and begin training for the upcoming summer and fall semesters.
- Can I attend workshops and seminars or take advantage of tutoring if I did not participate in the OAS Transition Program?
OAS programs and service are available to all UF student. In fact, we highly recommend and strongly encouraged students to take advantage of all services to enhance their academic success.
- Do I have to attend Preview if I am attending the OAS Transition Program?
Preview is mandatory for all University of Florida students. The OAS Transition Program is not a substitute for Preview, but is meant to complement or enhance this UF orientation program.
- Where can I find information about workshops, seminars, tutoring schedules, and events provided by OAS?
All workshops, socials, seminars, and events, as well as the tutoring schedule are available on the OAS website.
- What are some employment or volunteer opportunities at OAS for students?
Employment and volunteer opportunities that exist for students include office assistants, peer mentors and tutors.
- How do I sign up for tutoring?
Call or visit the office to schedule a tutoring appointment. In case of urgent help, you can also walk-in to see a tutor.
- What courses do you provide tutorial services for?
OAS tutors are proficient in a broad range of subjects that may include economics, finance, algebra, trigonometry, pre-calculus, calculus, statistics, chemistry, physics, biology, English, Spanish and psychology.
- Does OAS have computers available for student use?
Unfortunately, OAS does not have computers available for student use. We recommend students visit the UF CIRCA computer Labs.
- Does OAS provide Financial Assistance?
No scholarships are directly associated with the OAS Program. Therefore, students are strongly encouraged to apply for available financial assistance through the appropriate agencies in a timely manner.
- What if I want more information?
If you have any questions please visit OAS, call 352-392-0788 Or email us at oas@aa.ufl.edu.