Office of Supportive Services: Opening the doors to success.

OSS Open House - Jane May

About OSS

The primary purpose of the Office of Supportive Services is to assist students who, for diverse reasons, have not had sufficient opportunities to prepare for the challenges of higher education. OSS works to enable these students to develop coping and self management survival skills for success within the University. OSS also provides motivation, academic advising, social counseling, personal planning, career guidance and skill enrichment seminars.

In the 1960’s the Office of Supportive Services was established as part of a developmental admissions program. This program was created by a team of concerned faculty members who were concerned about addressing unjust institutional and other social factors. They also recognized the need to provide post secondary educational opportunities to students who might not have had the chance to attend college. It is the commitment of higher education, as well as our office, to provide educational and career opportunities to such students. OSS is dedicated toward the advancement of students admitted to Michigan State University.

The mission of OSS is to provide comprehensive services to first-generation, low income college students and those who may have a disability. We are committed to creating and maintaining a student-centered learning environment that encourages academic excellence; values the importance of an education that promotes a global vision; and moreover, nurtures and facilitates movement toward academic achievement and personal goals of students.

Vision of OSS:

  • Be a source of support and guidance in students’ quest for educational excellence
  • Assist students in developing the skills to compete successfully in undergraduate, graduate and professional environments
  • Create, promote and support life enriching educational opportunities
  • Foster learning through innovative advising initiatives

This mission will enable OSS to assist students in achieving the maximum potential towards their academic and career choices.

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"The promise of our commitment is in our words, but the proof of our commitment is in our actions."


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