Governors State University’s Dual Degree Program (DDP), DDP-Male Success Initiative (MSI) and the Center for the Junior Year (CJY) were the center of discussion at their Summer Institute as a way to teach other institutions nationwide how to improve student’s transitions from a community college to a university.
DDP helps students complete their associate’s degree and then allows them to transfer to GSU, or another university, to complete their bachelor’s degree.
Safiyyah Shakir is currently working towards her degree in early child education at GSU as part of DDP. She originally heard about the program in December from her mother, who is a DDP participant herself. They’ve enjoyed sharing their college experience and regularly study together.
“I actually really like the experience of going to the same school as my mom because it’s been a way for me to get to know her more,” said Shakir. “It’s also allowed me to learn from her, how to be a college student and how to begin adult life.”
DDP provides students with networking opportunities, both with program alumni as well as GSU faculty members.
“We learn about the different departments at Governors State and we can meet teachers, even the ones that we may never have,” said Shakir. “They also provide mentorship opportunities, travel opportunities and so much more.”
Dr. Rosemary Johnsen, GSU’s associate provost and associate vice president for academic affairs, has found that students end up with a “cohort identity” through participation of DDP. It also allows a feeling of community at a predominately commuter school.
