Academic Initiatives
Academic initiatives enhance the academic mission of SMU.
Learn about key initiatives led by Student Academic Engagement & Success.
SAES-led initiatives
First-Generation Initiative
First-Generation Initiative
A first-generation college student is defined as a student whose parent(s)/legal guardian(s) have not completed a bachelor's degree. Being a first-generation college student is a proud accomplishment. The First-Generation Initiative (FGI) helps first-generation students navigate the complexities that stem from being in college. Our mission is to provide a support system and network that allows students to flourish.
SMU in Four
SMU in Four
SMU in Four – SMU’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) – is the University’s comprehensive approach to improving SMU’s retention and four-year graduation rates. To this end, our QEP advances student academic success through its most essential form: progress toward degree.