The NOVA Program

First generation college student? We have an awesome team to support you including faculty, staff and seasoned NOVAs who serve as mentors to help you become successful in college and in life! The NOVA program serves students with academic potential who are the first in their family to pursue a four-year college degree.

Join the NOVA Program in welcoming in our new participants on Friday, Aug. 17, from 3 to 4:30 at the Turley House. Reconnect with faculty, staff and administrators as we meet our new NOVA Stars, their parents and friends. The NOVA Program appreciates the support, teaching and mentoring EKU faculty and staff provide our students, so come on by and say hi! Light refreshments will be served.

Event Date: August 17; 3-4:30 p.m.  
Location: Turley House  
Cost: Free

Contact Information: Stephen J. Haggerty , 622-1047

The NOVA Program is Eastern’s TRiO Student Support Services project, and has been a mainstay on campus since its inception in 1975.

Interested in Applying?
If you are an incoming first year student and you believe you would be eligible for the NOVA Program and its services, please go to our online application and apply.

NOVA Website | Success Stories | Photo Album | Video | Student Comments

What characteristics predict student success?

The NOVA program has a strong academic component.  Participants are mentored and supported by peers, faculty and staff.  In addition to academic help, a student is taught financial and economic literacy and other life management skills. 

A student in the NOVA program will develop leadership skills and a commitment to serve others.  Having these life skills is a strong predictor of student success. 

How do NOVA students find help in selecting a major?

NOVA participants are guided by their advisors to begin to explore and identify their educational and career goals and to develop an educational plan to accomplish those goals.  

Who are the peer leaders?

As students become more comfortable knowing their own goals, they are encouraged to act as peer leaders for NOVA's first year participants. NOVA peer leaders find mentoring other students a rewarding and life-changing experience.

How does NOVA help students persist to graduation?

An important component of student retention is to connect and engage a student with the EKU community.  

• NOVA has a Living/Learning Community located in McGregor Hall, and NOVA students live on the same floor.  
• Students in the program are together in NOVA classes from the first year experience through graduation.  
• Offices in the NOVA program are located in Turley House, and the atmosphere is just like a home. There are places to study, eat, and lounge. Faculty and staff are available to answer questions and provide moral support -- it is all about connecting! 

Is there Opportunity for Personal Development?

NOVA participants are encouraged to serve with community partners such as: Berea Head Start, Habitat for Humanity, Liberty Place Recovery Center for Women, the Madison County Public Library, McCready Manor assisted living community, Mujeres Unidas, and the Richmond Child Care Center.  Engaging in the community and serving others are important steps in the personal leadership development of each NOVA student.  

How Does NOVA Help Students Prepare for the Next Step after Graduation?

NOVA advisors provide the necessary tools to prepare a student for transition into graduate school or into a chosen career path.  Advisors work closely with students proactively mentoring and making available support services.

What is NOVA's Cycle of Success?

Stage 1: First Year Experience (designed to assist with transitioning from high school to college)  

Stage 2: Educational Planning and Career Exploration

Stage 3: Professional Development

Stage 4: Graduation and Alumni (designed to assist with transitioning from college to graduation and alumni involvement)

If you're the first in your family to attend college, you may find that the tight-knit community of students, faculty and staff in the NOVA Program would be the perfect environment for you to connect at EKU.  

Contact the NOVA office today to find out more.