Student Success Center serves as a hub for future educators

MURRAY, Ky. – Established in 2017, the Student Success Center (SSC) located in Alexander Hall at Murray State University, serves as a vital resource hub for College of Education and Human Services (COEHS) students pursuing careers in education at Murray State University. 

With a commitment to guiding students through every stage of their educational journey, the SSC offers comprehensive support tailored to their needs.

SSC Coordinator Annessa Roberts emphasizes the center's primary focus on aiding students in navigating their PRAXIS requirements, providing invaluable assistance with registration, study materials and one-on-one tutoring sessions.

"Our goal is to ensure students are well-equipped for success in their PRAXIS exams,” said Roberts. “We offer a range of study resources, both digital and hard copy, along with dedicated test spaces in Alexander Hall for those opting for the 'Test at Home' option, ensuring a distraction-free environment with reliable Wi-Fi."

The SSC offers assistance with reviewing resumes and providing feedback, while also assisting with interview preparation. All of these resources are essential in preparing future educators for the workforce.

"The Student Success Center has a unique mission in serving students,” explains Dr. David Whaley, COEHS dean. “This center regularly provides students opportunities to enhance their knowledge and skills to pass the state-mandated teacher certification exams. From their entry into the teacher education program until their graduation, students have access to a faculty member who will guide them in practicing exams and electronic workbooks. The overall success of the Student Success Center is huge."

Reflecting upon her experience, COEHS student Daniela Avila, of Murray, Kentucky, added, “The Student Success Center has helped me study for the PRAXIS many times. I love how patient Annessa (Roberts) is and how she explains the material.”

COEHS student Amelia Stevens, of Gilbertsville, Kentucky, has had a similar experience.

“I went to the Student Success Center for help with my PRAXIS to get admitted into the Teacher Education program,” said Stevens. “Annessa (Roberts) helped me out so much and was able to get me the help that I needed to be successful and complete my Praxis. She was able to place me into a secluded room so that I was able to test privately with no interruptions. I had lots of technical difficulties with trying to test at home and I would not have been able to complete my Praxis testing without the help of the Student Success Center.”

For more information on the SSC, contact msu.ssc@murraystate.edu.