Steps to Leaps launches to strengthen students’ growth

Purdue officially launched the Steps to Leaps initiative on Sept. 30.

Steps to Leaps is a campus-wide initiative geared toward bolstering student success. It is also a key element of the Provost’s Road Map for Transformative Undergraduate Education.

The new website brings together resources, including learning modules, worksheets and videos that provide information on the numerous issues facing students. The offices of the Provost, Vice Provost for Student Life, Vice Provost for Teaching and Learning, Leadership and Professional Development Initiative, Student Success and BGR Team, Dean of Students and Counseling and Psychological Services are partners for Steps to Leaps.

“First, we have spent the last year or so learning about the current generation of students and how Generation Z is engaging with Purdue,” said Beth McCuskey, vice provost for student life.

These students tend to be high-achieving and desire to make a significant impact on the world, but as a result tend to put a lot of pressure on themselves. This has led to upticks in demand for services such as CAPS (Counseling and Professional Services) to help with coping skills, McCuskey said.

"President Mitch Daniels also has challenged us to help our students become more resilient, and the Provost’s Road Map for Transformative Undergraduate Education calls upon us to maximize the impact of our residential campus on the growth and success of our students," McCuskey said.

There are five pillars or content areas for Steps to Leaps. They are:

• Well-Being—Staying healthy in body, brain, and spirit is a life-long journey. Learn strategies to improve your own well-being with steps to security, health and prosperity.
• Leadership and Professional Development—Boilermakers have a strong tradition of leadership in their careers and communities. Learn how to tap into your own strengths as you become the next generation of leaders with steps to initiative, guidance and direction.
• Impact—Every Boilermaker strives to leave their footprint, and world-changing examples can be found throughout Purdue’s rich history. Learn the importance of creating an impact through your everyday actions with steps to modify, touch and influence.
• Networks—A strong network serves as a resource throughout your life. The tightest networks are created by connections with individuals and require active participation. Learn how to build your network with steps to making connections and bonds.
• Grit—Life is full of ups and downs. Learn strategies to tap into your inner fortitude to overcome challenges and become your best Boilermaker with steps to resolve and character.

For more information on the services and programs offered, visit the Steps to Leaps website.