Beyond the Classroom :: CHAMPS / Life Skills Program

A member of the NCAA CHAMPS / Life Skills Program since 1995, Middle Tennessee State University and the SAEC staff are committed to personal development, career development and community service. The enhancement center has the goal of challenging the Blue Raider Student-Athletes to pursue and achieve personal success and develop a life-long commitment to learning.

• Academic Excellence is supported through the enhancement center which houses a library-style study center which includes study carrels, computers, academic advising, individual tutoring, group study tables, as well as, referral to other campus assistance and resources. The Blue Raiders Student-Athletes are encouraged to transfer the skills that make them successful on the field and court into the classroom.
  
• Personal Development is administered through a needs assessment system in which student-athletes, administrators and coaches have input. Programming for personal development is based on the changing needs and issues identified that will support and enhance the student-athletes. Past programming has included alcohol, drugs and addictive behavior, fiscal responsibility, leadership development, public speaking, understanding diversity, eating disorders, sexual responsibility, defining values, media relations, and etiquette.
  
• Career Development begins when the student-athlete arrives on campus in the form of academic advising. Students are referred to major college advisors and departments for information on various programs. An informative career night is held where students may attend three sessions and hear professionals tell "the good, the bad, and the ugly"; about their professions to assist them in decision making. Workshops on resume writing are available to individuals or small groups. A seminar is held for sophomores emphasizing the need for resume and experience building. Juniors are required to register with the university career center. Seniors are taught to take the twenty-four traits of a successful athlete and transfer these traits to the business world, interview training, and write a DILO (day in the life of) and to relate this to a career.
  
• Community Service is an integral part of the program is dedicated to developing a life-long commitment to service in each of the student-athletes. Activities include the Rutherford County Special Olympics, Read Across America, Raider by Request, canned food drives, Red Cross collection, charity golf tournaments, Angel Tree, Women in Sports Days, free youth sport clinics and Habitat for Humanity.