Build resilient students and a sense of belonging

University Priority

Creating a Growth Environment

Success in life requires a combination of knowledge, grit and a solid support system.

Northwestern plays an important role in helping students make successful transitions to life after college. The University provides students with resources to keep them safe and productive, and to guide them to valuable extracurricular experiences.

Division of Student Affairs

More than 30 departments across Student Affairs engage students throughout their Northwestern experience, provide resources and help them develop important skills both in and out of the classroom.

Undergraduate Advising

Whether it's navigating University rules, understanding school requirements, choosing classes or just needing a sounding board, every student can use a little guidance. That's where Northwestern's school advisers and Connect NU come in – helping smooth the path to academic success.

Career Advancement

Northwestern Career Advancement provides a range of career development, preparation and professional opportunities. These include the Career Trek alumni networking program, access to free gently used professional attire through 'Cats Closet and many more.

Health Professions Advising

HPA advises and prepares all undergraduate students and undergraduate alumni to pursue careers in the health professions. Opportunities include apprenticeships with Northwestern Medicine physicians, support for medical school applicants, clinical volunteering and help planning for careers in medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine and more.

Meet Some of Our People

From the moment students arrive, Northwestern feels like home.

Staff and faculty consider every aspect of students’ time on campus, preparing them for a successful life after college.

Mesmin Destin

As Faculty Director of Student Access and Enrichment, and a social psychologist, Destin works with campus partners to improve experiences for first-generation and lower-income students.

Amanda Mueller

As the Director of Residential and Academic Engagement within Residential Services, Mueller works with campus partners to develop programming and opportunities for all residential students.

Tracie Thomas

Thomas is the Director of Career Development in Northwestern Career Advancement. In her role, she provides career guidance to undergraduate students in Weinberg and SESP, as well as graduate students.

Northwestern is deeply committed to student engagement, belonging, and health and wellness. We care about every aspect of community.”

Susan Davis
Vice President for Student Affairs

Highlights

Learn about how Northwestern fosters belonging.

Supporting FGLI students

Student Enrichment Services partners with FGLI students – who are first-generation, lower-income, and/or DACA/undocumented – to foster identity development, navigate campus resources and build community.

'Meet me at Norris'

The Norris University Center is a place for students to find artistic outlets, leadership opportunities, movies, books or just some provisions and a space to relax. With the renovation of the Cohen Lawn, this campus classic will be even more inviting.

Creating bonding moments from Day One

The Office of Student Transition Experiences supports undergraduate students in navigating their unique transition to and through Northwestern by providing intentional learning experiences and fostering connection.