GPS Frequently Asked Questions
Expect Greatness
Get the support you deserve!
The Gateway to Phoenix Success (GPS) program provides an additional layer of support to aid in the transition from high school, or the workforce, to college for students who may have faced academic challenges in the past to give you the strongest start possible at UW-Green Bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
You're entering unknown territory and it's normal to have questions. Here are the answers to common questions about the Gateway to Phoenix Success (GPS) program.
What can I expect in GPS?
Most GPS Students will take a GPS Tools for Success (Comm Sci 150) Course in their first semester, and many students will take GPS Tools for Success 2 in their second semester for continued support. You can expect to hear from us through your UW-Green Bay student email where we'll guide you to your next steps.
Why was I selected for the GPS program?
You were selected for the Gateway for Phoenix Success (GPS) program because you belong at UW-Green Bay and we see enormous potential in you. Our selection process considers various admission factors, such as high school grades, transfer GPA or missing required courses. But it's more than just numbers; we're looking for students who may benefit from a boost. With a little support, you can show your resilience, academic drive and commitment to your goals.
Participating in GPS will help you transition to UW-Green Bay, develop effective study habits, meet and connect with peers, and have a little extra support as you begin your amazing journey through college.
Will GPS put me behind?
No, the GPS program won't put you behind. It's completely valid to have concerns like graduating on time and avoiding spending time and money on credits you might not need. The GPS time commitment is manageable and it's worth it. You'll gain strategies for success that will help put you on a positive trajectory through college and the Tools for Student Success courses count toward credits you need to graduate.
Are GPS and Tools for Success required?
Yes, your continued enrollment at UW-Green Bay requires completion of the GPS program including the Tools for Success course or courses depending on your assessed level of needed support.
How will I benefit from the GPS program?
It's a big leap from high school, or the working world, to college. College classes challenge you to learn in new ways and ask you to do more outside of the classroom. Successful students must learn to step out of their comfort zones, speak for themselves and ask for help. Talk about pressure! But at UW-Green Bay, the GPS program will give you the tools you need to meet these challenges. GPS and Tools for Success help you build the skills you need to succeed in the college classroom, tackle college-level work and get the most out of yourself and what UW-Green Bay has to offer.
- Become ready to tackle college-level work
- Learn to leverage tools to be successful
- Develop confidence and resilience
- Connect with other students like you
- Plan for challenges and how to overcome them
Do I need to do anything before the semester starts?
No. There's nothing you need to do until you attend GB Welcome at your campus. You will receive information about sessions during GB Welcome that will be important to your success at UW-Green Bay where you’ll be encouraged to:
- Discover how you will learn in college (hint: it's different than high school!) and begin developing habits that will be key to your success
- Explore why higher education is beneficial for your future and the degree path you intend to pursue
- Experience the college classroom environment and practice skills necessary to thrive in that setting
- Learn how to use the various technology that UW-Green Bay students use in and out of the classroom
- Develop a time management strategy for balancing classes, work, friends and self-care during your life as a college student
- Set goals for your first year and develop action plans to accomplish them
- Learn about the offices and resources important to UW-Green Bay students and find your way around campus
- Develop a positive mindset to meet any challenges that come your way
- Make friendships that will be the cornerstone of your first year
- Build relationships with faculty and staff who will help you navigate your time at UW-Green Bay
Do transfer and non-traditional aged students need to take Tools for Success?
The GPS Staff conducts a holistic assessment to determine what level of support each student admitted through the GPS program may need to be most successful, and that includes taking into account previous college and employment experience.
Meet a Phoenix
“Coming in to college can definitely be scary, and I didn’t really believe in myself as a whole. But my mentor and faculty showed me that it’s okay because we are all in this together. Don’t be afraid, be willing, be open, be adventurous and know that they will have your back.”
Amiyah Jones
Biology Major, Class of 2024
Still Have Questions?
It's normal to have questions when facing the unknown. You're on a new and exciting college journey. We're here to help you!