A Male Success Initiative (MSI)
The purpose of the Prairie State College Male Success Initiative (MSI) PDF is to recruit, enroll, retain, and support males of color in their pursuit of all
educational endeavors. The program helps students to achieve their educational goals
by providing:
- an academic advisor dedicated to participants
- orientation for new MSI students
- career planning (STEM and all other career options)
- priority registration
- service learning community – transition to college success class
- mentoring/ tutoring
- social and cultural activities
The program coordinator works one-on-one with students to assist with appropriate course selection and early alert academic monitoring. Male Success Initiative participants also benefit from the obtainment of life skills and soft skills via workshops and guest speakers. Additionally, members receive transfer assistance and access to all of the services and resources offered in the Learning Achievement Center.
The program encourages personal growth, promotes community outreach, and provides an opportunity for participants to learn and adapt methods that promote success in college.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Male Success Initiative Program? It's a Prairie State College persistence and retention initiative specifically aimed at males of color. It offers methods of improving male student graduation rates and socialization skills.
What are the benefits? The benefits of being a member of the Male Success Initiative Program are:
- individualized help with course advising, along with priority registration
- additional opportunities to work with faculty to create an academic support system
- graduation and transfer assistance, as well as college and university tours
- You will attend fun social activities on and off-campus
Additionally, students have access to a computer lab as well as group and private study areas in the Learning Achievement Center.
How do I apply? If you have been admitted to Prairie State College and have registered for classes you are eligible to apply for the MSI program.
I have more questions. Who should I contact? Contact William Berkley, Male Success Initiative program coordinator, for an application and more information.
MSI Scholarships
The Male Success Initiative (MSI) scholarship was established by former Vice President
of Academic Affairs, Dr. Linda Uzureau
Award - $1000
Deadline - Varies
Supplemental Questions - Are you enrolled in the MSI program? click here to sign up
How do we contact MSI and Prairie State College MSI Support?
Below is the contact information. Please continue to remain in contact with MSI and support help.
| Name | Support Role | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| William Berkley | Coordinator, Male Success Initiative | wberkley@prairiestate.edu | |
| Sarah Hein | Counselor and Transfer Coordinator | shein@prairiestate.edu | |
| Terri Eakins | Career Development Advisor | teakins@prairiestate.edu | |
| Shelley Tekeste | Disability Services Coordinator |
disabilityservices@prairiestate.edu Disability Services Webpage |
|
| Shannon Word | Personal Counselor, NCC, LCPC | sword@prairiestate.edu | |
| Sharita Walker | DDP-MSI Transfer Specialist Governors State University | Swalker3@govst.edu |
Additionally: MSI will regularly refresh our website, social media, Newsletter, and other forms of virtual communication to keep you up-to-date.
Visit Our Facebook Page
Additional Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! We welcome all current PSC students including transfer students.
Yes. PSC offers personal counseling by appointment.
If you need support, Counselors are using Google Hangouts for phone counseling sessions to address students' emotional, psychological and social well-being. For assistance, please contact Personal Counselor, Shannon Word, NCC, LCPC at sword@prairiestate.edu or at (708) 709-3511.