Rider Achievement Program (RAP)
What is RAP?
The Rider Achievement Program (RAP) is a unique academic program at Rider University. It offers first year students who show great promise for academic success a highly specialized and structured learning experience. RAP is designed to give these motivated students the assistance and guidance they need to succeed at Rider University.
Who is accepted to RAP?
Students who have the potential to succeed in the college environment, but whose academic record does not meet the regular admission criteria. Components of the Rider Achievement Program include:
- Summer Bridge Program
- Peer Assistance
- Freshman Seminar
- Specialized Advising and Coaching
- Linked Courses
- Tutoring Opportunities
- Workshops and Events
Summer Bridge Program
- Mandatory program for all first year RAP students - takes place the week before classes begin
- Great opportunity to meet fellow students and transition into the Rider community
- Strong mix of academic work with community building activities
Peer Assistance Program
- Peer Assistants are students trained in areas such as community building and resource referral
- Peer Assistants work closely with a small group of incoming freshmen, helping to ease their transition
- Peer Assistants assist with Freshman Seminars and continue to connect with their small group of students throughout the first semester
Freshman Seminar
10 week seminar for all Rider first year students
Some topics include:
- Time management
- Effective note-taking strategies
- Healthy lifestyle choices
- Career interests and options
Specialized Advising and Coaching
- Each RAP first year student is assigned a faculty advisor as well as a RAP coach. The RAP Coach is also their Freshman Seminar Leader
- Faculty advisors work with the students to strengthen their understanding of the curriculum and registration procedures
- RAP coaches meet regularly with the students to assess their transition concerns, academic progress, and tutoring needs. Examples of possible referrals: Tutoring Services for content tutoring or Supplemental Instruction, Rider Learning Center for assistance with writing or study strategies, Counseling Center, Services for Students with Disabilities, Career Services
Tutoring Opportunities
Tutoring Services in the Student Success Center
Workshops and Events
Examples of Spring workshops and events offered:
- Remembering How to Remember: How to Learn, Store and Receive New Information
- Objective Test Taking Strategies/Battling Test Anxiety
- Motivation
- Am I Considering the Right Major?
- Making Good Decisions for Healthy Living
- How to Register Online
- End of Semester RAP Celebration
Benefits of the Rider Achievement Program
- RAP coaches who work exclusively with RAP students throughout their entire freshman year
- Individualized academic support: assistance with study strategies, with a focus on self management areas
- Supportive environment, both inside and outside of the classroom
- Peer Assistance Program, helping ease their transition from high school to college
- Tutorial support to supplement and reinforce the classroom experience
- A sense of belonging and community on Rider's campus
For more information please contact Mary Beth Carstens at (609) 896-5238 or mcarstens@rider.edu
