Supporting Success: How Regis College’s Student Success Advisors Helped Online Learners Reach the Finish Line
Graduation day at Regis College is more than a ceremony; it marks the completion of years of effort and support. For the Class of 2025, it was the final step in a journey backed by a committed community.
Among those celebrating were the student support advisors who guide online learners from their first semester to the final walk across the stage.
“Rise at Regis” isn’t just a motto—it’s an approach grounded in putting students first and helping them stay on track, no matter what challenges arise.
Student success advisors play a key role in that mission, offering encouragement, structure, and guidance that helps students stay focused and keep going.
Coaching That Starts With Listening
At Regis, support goes well beyond academics. Learners have a dedicated team helping them navigate everything from course planning to personal challenges, offering a consistent, reliable presence from day one.
Yvette R., Sara F., and Alessandra F. are student success advisors who work with online students in the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. This is what Yvette and Sara had to say about their experience supporting online learners.
“I’m responsible for the student experience from their first semester to graduation,” says Yvette. “It’s not just about keeping them on track academically—it’s about helping them reach their goals.”
Yvette often works with students who are uncertain about their path, especially in a field like nursing, where there are many specialties. She helps students identify what interests them and what feels like a good fit for their goals and values.
“We figure it out together,” she says. “When students connect their studies to something meaningful, the next step becomes easier.”
She describes her role as part strategist, part coach, and part confidante.
“During our welcome calls, I’m not just gathering logistics,” she says. “I’m listening for their ‘why.’ I want to know what motivates them so I can help them hold on to that when things get tough.”
Sara also ensures students feel supported throughout their time in the program.
“Being learner-obsessed means making sure they have what they need so they can focus on learning,” she says.
That support sometimes extends into uncharted territory.
“Each semester, there’s always one student I connect deeply with,” Sara says. “I walk alongside them through the highs and lows. We talk through tough moments, celebrate the wins—big or small—and just keep going.”
She emphasizes that success starts with empathy.
“It’s not just about assignments,” Sara says. “It’s about truly understanding who they are and what they’re up against. That’s how we help them stay focused and move forward.”
Bonds That Go Beyond Graduation
Yvette, Sara, and their colleagues see themselves not just as advisors but as long-term partners in each learner’s success.
Sara describes the deep relationships that often form. One of the students she worked with, Azuka, stayed in touch even after earning her degree.
“She called me directly to let me know she passed her boards,” Sara says. “She told me, ‘You’ve been with me since day one, so I had to let you know.’”
Azuka’s path was far from easy. She traveled long distances to meet clinical placement requirements while managing coursework and personal responsibilities. But her dedication paid off: She passed her boards and received multiple job offers.
“She told me she plans to call again once she starts her new position,” Sara adds. “Moments like that remind me why I love this work.”
Helping Students Believe in Themselves
Yvette brings that same personal, empathetic approach to her work.
“Many of my learners seek me out even after the program ends,” she says. “I’ve had graduates refer coworkers, friends—even spouses. That kind of trust means everything.”
One student especially stood out—a learner overwhelmed by self-doubt, constantly comparing herself to her seemingly more gifted sister. Yvette supported her through every struggle, cheering for each hard-earned grade until, together, they achieved success.
“We fought for the win,” Yvette recalls. “My role may not always feel big, but I know it’s important.”
A Commencement Years in the Making
Regis College’s 2025 commencement ceremony brought together nearly 1,000 graduates, including 580 nursing students across various specialties. Families and faculty gathered on campus to recognize not only the achievement but also the effort and community it took to get there.
For online learners, graduation is more than a milestone. It’s a rare chance to meet the people who guided them—coaches, professors, and peers—in person. It transforms what can sometimes feel like a solitary experience into something shared and celebratory.
“It’s a reminder that behind every name in a database is a real person with hopes, fears, and dreams,” Sara says. “Graduation isn’t just their success—it’s ours, too, because we helped make it possible.”
The Lasting Power of Student Support
The stories of the Class of 2025 highlight the value of steady guidance and personal connection. When students feel seen, supported, and encouraged, it can make all the difference in helping them reach the finish line.
Yvette sums it up best:
“At Regis, we don’t just support students—we empower them. We believe in their potential, even on the days they don’t. Seeing them succeed makes everything we do worthwhile.”
Ready to Rise with Regis?
If you’re ready to advance your career with personalized, one-on-one support from day one to graduation, Regis College is here to help you succeed.
Explore our online programs and discover how our dedicated coaches, expert faculty, and flexible learning experience can help you rise to your goals. Ready to take the next step? Schedule a call with an advisor today.