UNCP Enhances Accessibility with Extended Hours for Student Support Services
PEMBROKE, North Carolina — The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP) is set to enhance its commitment to student support by offering extended hours for essential services, catering specifically to the needs of non-traditional students, working parents, and families with busy schedules. The initiative, dubbed “UNCP Business After 5,” will run from August 18 to August 21, providing crucial support from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in Lumbee Hall.
During this four-day event, students and their families will have the opportunity to meet directly with representatives from various departments, including Admissions, Financial Aid and Scholarships, and the Center for Student Success. These departments are poised to offer personalized assistance and to address specific questions or concerns regarding enrollment, financial assistance, and academic support. Notably, Student Accounts personnel will be available until 6 p.m. each evening, ensuring that all queries can be promptly resolved.
The rationale behind extending operational hours is rooted in an understanding of the diverse challenges that students face while trying to balance education with personal and professional responsibilities. Many prospective and current students may find it difficult to access campus services during traditional business hours due to work commitments or familial obligations. Tim Sampson, the director of Financial Aid and Scholarships at UNCP, emphasized this need, stating, “We understand that our students need to balance work, life, and school, and we want to be here to help them stay on track. UNC Pembroke is committed to ensuring all students are supported every step of the way.”
This proactive initiative is timely, coinciding with the commencement of fall classes on August 18, a period when many students are finalizing their preparations for the academic year. By offering flexible hours, UNCP aims to foster an inclusive environment that not only addresses academic and financial inquiries but also cultivates a sense of community among students and their families.
As institutions of higher education increasingly recognize the importance of accommodating diverse student needs, UNCP’s “Business After 5” may serve as a model for other universities seeking to enhance accessibility and support for their student populations. As the university embraces this innovative approach, it reaffirms its commitment to educational equity and support, ensuring that all students have the tools they need to succeed academically and personally in their collegiate journeys.
