The second floor of the Daniels building now features a one-stop shop for advising, career services and student programming. The new Student Success Center (SSC) is a place to find support, answers and opportunities to plug in to Daniels programming, from orientation to graduation and beyond.
“The SSC is designed to positively impact every student’s time at Daniels and propel them into a career after graduation,” said Katie Runkel, the executive director of student success. “From their first day on campus, all undergraduate and graduate students will be provided professionalism, creativity, courtesy and empowerment to position them for their future.”
Located in suites 255 and 280, just inside the south entrance of the Daniels building, the SSC encompasses Undergraduate Programs, Graduate Student Services, Daniels Career Services and Experiential Learning. Get to know each office and some of the people who are invested in the growth and development of every student.
Undergraduate Programs
Daniels students have access to a dedicated team of academic advisors, all of whom are committed advocates for the undergrads they meet with on a regular basis. Other members of the team coordinate some of the most popular student-focused events, like the Welcome Back BBQ, Undergrads on Ice, Business Olympics and the Etiquette Dinner.
“The Daniels undergraduate advising team partners with students to customize their DU journey. Advising conversations co-construct pathways toward graduation that infuse intellectual rigor and community engagement alongside resources that promote holistic well-being. Advisors are honored to be part of a support system that celebrates student growth and challenges students to move beyond their comfort zones for learning.”
Graduate Student Services
Grad students have a community at Daniels that understands their situation and knows how to meet their distinct needs. The Graduate Student Services team advises current students, hosts special events and features a group of Graduate Student Ambassadors, who offer their time and perspective to both current and prospective students.
“In Graduate Student Services, we believe graduate education should be transformational. We work closely with each student to design a degree plan that aligns with their professional and personal goals. We also recognize that learning extends beyond the classroom and support opportunities such as student clubs, case competitions and experiential learning to provide a well-rounded experience.”
Daniels Career Services
Business-focused, in-house career coaches are guides as students explore their options, prepare for internships and jobs, and build their networks. There are also plentiful opportunities to meet potential employers through weekly meet and greets, coffee chats, career fairs and other special events. Often, students get the chance to talk to employers long before interviewing, to learn what their jobs entail and what they look for in an employee.
Nearly nine-in-ten Daniels students have completed at least one internship. And, according to the most recent data, 94% of Daniels grads are employed full time, continue their education, or join a military or service organization within three months of graduation.
“The Career Services team empowers students through personalized coaching, employer connections and professional development programs. We strive to be a partner in shaping every student’s professional journey by helping them discover purpose, build confidence and pursue meaningful opportunities.”
Experiential Learning
First-hand exposure to the business world is a hallmark of an education from the Daniels College of Business. Students are encouraged to get outside of the classroom at every opportunity, whether through a hands-on class project, company-sponsored case competition, international travel course or outdoor leadership development.
“It is our goal to ensure every Daniels student has the opportunity to incorporate experiential learning into their degree program through a wide variety of offerings each year. Our team is always available to meet with students to help them find the opportunities that best complement their academic and professional experiences.”
It’s never too early to stop by the SSC or make an appointment with an advisor or career coach. The SSC staff stand ready to equip and empower students with the tools they need to reach their goals—even if those goals are just taking shape.
“We can help any student define their next steps and clarify their purpose,” Runkel said. “And then we will collaborate with our amazing faculty to get the student on the right path. Your future starts now!”