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Support Services

Advising and Academic Success

The Office of Advising & Academic Success offers guidance and support to students throughout their undergraduate experience as they explore and make choices regarding their academic program, major, and educational goals.

The following goals of the Office of Advising & Academic Success are based on the tenets of proactive, holistic, appreciative advising:

  • Support faculty advisors and students with the advising and registration processes, including but not limited to, schedule creation for each semester, major declaration, and advising and registration tools and resources, etc.

  • Assist students in developing strategies and utilizing resources that will enable them to take responsibility for and become engaged in their learning throughout college and beyond. These include, but are not limited to: tutoring, time management, study skills strategies, counseling, conflict resolution skills, accommodations, and instructional technology assistance.

  • Encourage students to establish meaningful connections with their faculty advisor and to become involved in the campus community by participating in co-curricular activities and programs.

Advisor Request Policy

Advising is a partnership between students and their advisors and students are encouraged to make meaningful connections with their academic advisor. Students are initially assigned an advisor by the Office of Advising & Academic Success, often within their declared major. However, in keeping with the goal of student empowerment, students may request a change of advisor through the student portal at any time should they wish to do so. Students should choose an advisor who best meets their needs holistically, whether that is an advisor within their major/ department or in another department. Within the limits of their advising load, advisors should accept a student’s request based on whether they feel the match will be a beneficial fit for the student.

Computer Labs

Computer Labs, located in the Kennedy Building, Webb Learning Center, Hafer Building and Levin Library, provide students with a variety of tools and resources to support the applied technology program as well as other academic areas of study and research. The facilities contain Macintosh and PCs, slide and flatbed scanners, a dye-sublimation color printer, and laser writer printers, all connected via an Ethernet network. During the regular college year, the Kennedy and Hafer Macintosh lab facilities are open on Mondays through Thursdays from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., on Fridays from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and on Sundays from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. The Kennedy and Hafer labs are closed Saturdays. The Levin Library lab is open during regular library hours. Lab assistants are available to provide help for Curry students. The computing functions taking place in the labs are word processing, electronic spreadsheets, database management, Internet access, graphic design, desktop publishing, the integration of photography and computer technology, digital imaging, academic research and various specialized projects.

Career and Experiential Learning

Career and Experiential Learning (CXL) offers students individualized attention to assist in developing a career path tailored to students’ interests, strengths, and goals. Students can receive career advising, resume development, graduate school advising, job search strategy planning, practice with interviewing and much more.  Career and Experiential Learning helps students become career ready to have a lifetime of career success.

The Curry Commitment

The Curry Commitment is a four-year program designed to support students as they prepare to enter the workforce by integrating career readiness programming and experiential learning opportunities into the undergraduate experience*. Built on the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Career Readiness Competencies, the program emphasizes career and self-development, communication, critical thinking, equity and inclusion, leadership, professionalism, teamwork, and technology.

Through this program, studets will receive support and services that prepare them to take the next steps towards their career shortly after graduation. Some of those resources include experiential learning through an internship in a related field or research project, career counseling, resume and cover letter workshops, interview skills training, and job search support.

Students opt-in to participate in the program and are required to participate in the program for all four yers of their undergraduate experience. Any student who does not receive a job offer or is not acceppted into graduate/professional school within six months after graduating, will be eligible for one of the following options:

  • The student will have their federal student loans paid up to 12 months while they continue to work with a Career Advisor; or

  • The student will be provided a paid internship in an organization aligned with their field of study up to 12 months while they continue to work with a Career Advisor; or

  • Tuition will be waived for 6 credits of graduate studies at Curry College for a program for which they have been accepted.

Students will be expected to:

  • Maintain a minimum 2.8 GPA

  • Complete an approved internship or experiential learning experience

  • Participate in career development workshops and events

  • Begin their job search by the start of their final semester

  • Meet any legal or regulatory requirements of chosen field.

*Transfer students who enroll at Curry with less than 30 credits may be eligible for this program.

Eligible students must complete a contract with Career and Experiential Learning (CXL) to opt-in to this program.

Internships

Career and Experiential Learning (CXL) assists students in integrating work experience in their college experience, in collaboration with faculty if the student seeks to receive academic credit for their internship experience. Internships is a form of experiential learning, which allows students to apply classroom learning to the world beyond and provides opportunities for networking and personal development and a richer understanding of many of the subjects studied through coursework. Students learn by doing and retain more of what they learn by being actively involved in the learning process. Taking advantage of the extensive opportunities for internships in the Greater Boston area and beyond, students prepare themselves for the work world and are supervised in the field by Curry faculty members or Career & Experiential Learning. Internships help students to apply classroom learning, gain work experience in a supervised setting, and explore career paths. Students may take up to 30 credit hours in internships in total with a maximum of 15 credits taken during one semester.

Each academic area may have specific prerequisites; contact Career and Experiential Learning at careerdevelopment@curry.edu for details. Sophomore standing is required, and depending on the academic department,  a minimum 2.50 GPA cumulative average is expected. In general, 3 credits of internship may count toward the major.

To obtain credit for internships, a student must submit an on-line application through the MyCurry portal and confirm an approved site and schedule. The student must also create three learning goals developed in cooperation with their supervisors and submit a final Learning Contract. Learning Contract guidelines are available on the MyCurry Portal under Career and Experiential Learning.

International Student Services

The International Student Services (ISS) office at Curry College serves as a dedicated resource for the College’s community of international students, supporting them from the moment they are admitted through graduation and beyond. ISS provides guidance on maintaining F-1 visa status, navigating U.S. immigration regulations, and understanding the responsibilities that come with studying in the United States. Acting as the primary liaison between international students and government agencies, the office ensures compliance with all federal requirements while also advocating for students’ needs within the Curry community.

In addition to immigration advising, International Student Services offers a wide range of support services to help students thrive academically, socially, and culturally. These include orientation programs tailored to international students, workshops on employment eligibility, and resources for cultural adjustment and community engagement. ISS also assists with on-campus employment processes and referrals to academic or personal support services. By fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, the office helps international students fully engage in campus life, succeed in their studies, and prepare for future opportunities.

Study Abroad/Study Away

Curry is committed to assisting students in achieving a personally fulfilling education, one which enables them to develop existing areas of interest and skill, and to explore new areas. This includes the possibility of study abroad and study at other colleges, both during the academic year and the summer through short-term programs led by Curry College faculty, through exchange partnerships, or through programs offered by third party providers. Study abroad enhances the student’s academic preparation in specific areas, such as foreign languages, politics and history, English, and the fine and applied arts, as well as more specific interests, such as comparative education techniques, international broadcasting, international business and trade, and the international impact of environmental issues. It also serves to broaden the student’s general perspective on a world which is becoming increasingly interconnected.

Study at another educational institution provides an opportunity to take courses which are not offered at Curry but which complement one’s course work and/or major as well as meeting Curry Core requirements. Such study may also provide an opportunity to visit another geographical area of the United States, while continuing to progress toward one’s degree. Students can participate in full-semester study abroad programs or short-term programs led by Curry College faculty during winter, spring, or summer breaks. Students can view information about Study Abroad options by clicking the Study Abroad icon on the MyCurry Portal Quick Launch which takes them to ViaTRM, the College's study abroad platform.

Students considering study abroad should contact the Director of International Student Services & Global Programming who will help the student consult with the institution or program of interest regarding their admission requirements. Students should have completed at least 24 credits at Curry, have a minimum grade point average of 2.50, and be in good standing with Student Financial Services and Community Standards & Accountability.

For specific information concerning study abroad and study at other academic institutions, contact the Office of International Student Services and Global Programming at studyabroad@curry.edu.

Counseling Center

At times, students may face stressors that pose significant barriers to their academic and personal success. In the event that such stressors become intensive (e.g., grief and loss, mood disorders, eating disorders and/or substance abuse, among others), the Counseling Center can assist students by helping them to identify healthy coping skills, which can help to improve overall psychological wellness and enhance academic and personal success. In the event that emergency assistance is needed, students may access urgent care services by walk-in, or after hours, through the counselor on call.

Writing Center

Located on the first floor of the Learning Commons, the Writing Center is dedicated to assisting Curry students at any level become more flexible, effective, and confident writers. At the Writing Center, all students enrolled at Curry can receive free individualized attention to their writing from professional Writing Center Specialists or trained Peer Writing Tutors. From brainstorming, creating an outline or graphic organizer, or writing that first paragraph to revising an essay or poem, citing sources, or learning to proofread, we work with students at any stage of the writing process.

Tutoring

Academic Tutoring is housed within the Office of Advising & Academic Success and Peer Tutors have been recommended by faculty to serve in this role. By leveraging the knowledge and experience of Peer Tutors, students can receive personalized assistance. To make the most of the tutoring sessions, students are encouraged to come prepared with specific questions or topics they need help with. This ensures that the time spent with the Peer Tutor is focused and productive. This collaborative approach aims to enhance academic performance and fosters a supportive learning environment.

Louis R. Levin Memorial Library

The Levin Library is committed to helping students develop the research and information literacy skills necessary to succeed within the classroom and in their careers. Our support model is student-focused, and we engage with students in a variety of mediums including in-class instruction, in-person assistance services, online research assistance, holding events, and more.  We care deeply about the success of each student and strive to provide services and spaces for every individual and their unique needs.

The Library collection supports Curry’s undergraduate and graduate programs with a relevant collection of print books and videos, as well as our massive electronic collection including hundreds of thousands of journal articles, eBooks, streaming films, and many other media types. Students can access these 24 hours through the Library website whether on or off campus.

No library can possess every resource, and for items not found at Levin Library, students can utilize our Interlibrary Loan service to obtain materials from libraries across the globe.    

Spaces within the library are designed for all learning types.  The building’s lower level is our silent study area furnished with carrels, private nooks, and small tables.  Our main floor is equipped for more collaborative work with meeting tables, shared LED TV monitors, a makerspace, and more.  Also located on the main floor are numerous desktop computers for student use, wireless color printing, our research assistance desk, and circulation.

Hours during the academic year include nights and weekends, with extended hours added during final exam periods.  The library prides itself on fostering an open and welcoming environment for everyone in the Curry community and is dedicated to helping students on their journey to graduation and beyond.

Media Services

The goal of the Information Technology Services Office is to provide faculty, staff and students with the resources necessary to communicate and share information to enhance the learning process while furthering the academic climate.

All major classrooms are equipped with video and sound presentation capabilities. Most classrooms contain a PC, DVD, VHS, LCD (Data Projector), and HD Videocamera/microphone. Equipment available for other classroom and on-campus conference use include: PC laptop computer, digital video camera, DVD player; VCR player, portable audio system, LCD (Data Projector) and retractable screen. Equipment needs are arranged by appointment and reservations must be made through the Information Technology Services Office for equipment use.

Equipment needed for recurring classroom use must be reserved before the beginning of the semester. Other classroom equipment needs must be made at least 48 hours in advance. ITS makes every attempt to accommodate equipment needs. However, late reservations cannot be guaranteed. Requests can be made by phone at (617) 333-2911 or email (support@curry.edu). Due to peak volume times in the semester, we cannot guarantee last- minute requests.

Accessibility Services

The Office of Accessibility Services is committed to promoting an accessible, equitable, and inclusive learning environment at the College for all undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education students with disabilities as defined by applicable disability laws. Examples of these disabilities may include diagnosed learning disorders; hearing, visual, and mobility-related impairments; physical and mental conditions; and certain temporary disabilities. This office collaborates with other College departments to assist qualified students with a disability who request a reasonable accommodation, including, but not limited to, academic and residential accommodations or accommodations in college dining facilities. Some examples of accommodations relating to dining facilities may result from a student’s food allergies or other dietary conditions. A few examples of residential accommodations include first floor or elevator access, single dorms, or auditory or visual safety alarm. Some examples of academic accommodations are listed further below.

In accordance with applicable disability laws, students who are qualified individuals with disabilities as defined by law may request reasonable accommodations which afford them an equal opportunity to use or participate in the College’s programs, activities, and facilities. The Office of Accessibility Services works with each student on an individual basis to determine and implement appropriate and reasonable accommodations, and auxiliary aids and services. The College will provide reasonable accommodations, unless they would present an undue administrative or financial burden to the College, compromise the integrity of an academic program, or make a fundamental alteration to the nature of the College program or activity.

This office reviews and evaluates student requests for accommodation on an individual basis and collaborates with other College departments as necessary. If a requested accommodation presents an undue burden or makes a fundamental alternation to the College program or activity, the College will attempt to propose alternative solutions or accommodations which do not create such a hardship or alternation. The College will work in good faith with the student requesting the accommodation to determine the availability or an acceptable alternative.

Academic accommodations may include, but are not limited to:

• Note taking support

• Permission to record lectures

• Lecture materials in enlarged print

• Additional time to complete exams or quizzes

• Quiet, distraction-reduced testing location

• Use of hand-written responses rather than computerized answer sheet

• Use of computer for essay questions

Auxiliary aids and services may include, but are not limited to:

● Textbooks in alternative format

● Text-to-speech software (e.g. Kurzweil 3000)

● Speech-to-text software (e.g. Dragon Naturally Speaking)

● Screen magnification software (e.g. ZoomText)

● Assistive listening devices (e.g. FM System)

● On-campus housing accommodations

● Dining hall accommodations

Assistance Animals

The College maintains a Policy on Assistance Animals to address requests from qualified individuals with disabilities for reasonable accommodations that require the presence of animals on college property. For more information on Emotional Support Animals or Service Animals please visit either the Office of Accessibility Services page located on the Curry College website, or the Office of Accessibility Services page located in the myCurry portal, under the Academic Support tab. To learn more about deadlines, policies, and procedures to request reasonable accommodations, please visit the Office of Accessibility Services page on the Curry College website.

Program for Advancement of Learning (PAL)

The Program for Advancement of Learning (PAL) at Curry College is a nationally recognized academic program designed for college students who learn differently. Grounded in the values of the neurodiversity movement, PAL embraces cognitive diversity as an asset and empowers students through coursework that is personalized, credit-bearing, and intellectually rigorous.

Students enrolled in PAL engage in one-on-one or small group seminars that are structured to deepen self-awareness and build advanced academic strategies. These courses emphasize essential areas such as critical reading, executive function, metacognition, organization, and time management, always through a strengths-based lens that honors individual learning profiles.

PAL also integrates technology to enhance learning in meaningful ways. Each student has access to tools and apps that support productivity, and the PAL Assistive Technology (AT) Center offers personalized instruction to ensure students use these resources effectively and confidently.

At its heart, PAL is about academic growth, personal empowerment, and belonging. It’s not a service, it’s a credit-bearing academic experience rooted in authentic relationships with faculty, individualized instruction, and the understanding that different ways of learning are not only valid, but vital.

Students receive credit for PAL courses and are able to continue in the program either full- or part-time as long as needed. Participation in PAL is for a minimum of one academic year and each PAL course carries an additional fee. Summer PAL is an optional program for accepted PAL students that provides a structured college experience in a supportive, enjoyable environment that allows students to begin their first college year with increased confidence and self-awareness. Students earn three credits for their participation in this three-week, intensive course that lays the foundation for developing self-understanding and effective learning habits. Classes focus on discussions, readings, and writing on topics such as brain functions, learning styles, and cognitive processing. Students have multiple problem-solving and critical thinking experiences that connect their personal learning profiles to real-world situations. Summer PAL introduces students to life at Curry and provides an opportunity to develop long-lasting relationships with faculty and students. There is an additional fee for this program.

In the first year, students enroll in required courses bearing 1.5 credits each: PAL 1190 and 1200, The Learning Process I and II.

After the first year, PAL students are given the option to continue in one of the following courses: PAL 1210, Advancement in Learning, PAL 1220, Learning Transitions, and PAL 1230, Selected Topics in Learning. This course sequence is designed to provide a comprehensive and individualized approach to meeting student needs to develop independence. (See course descriptions for details).

Many successful graduates of PAL regard the support they received from their PAL professors and peers as critical components of their personal success. PAL students are fully integrated into all of the College’s courses and activities. From their first day at Curry to Commencement, PAL students are first and foremost Curry students – fulfilling the necessary curriculum requirements alongside students without learning disabilities.

Students who participate in PAL are often actively involved in leadership roles across the campus. Approximately 25% of new Curry students are enrolled in PAL.

Social Assistance in Learning (SAIL)

The SAIL program at Curry College is designed to support students with neurodiverse profiles who exhibit college readiness and independent living skills but benefit from enhanced social skill development. As a fee-based initiative, the program requires students to undergo a thorough application and interview process to participate.

The core objective of the SAIL program is to foster deeper engagement in campus life by providing tailored support for the development of interpersonal skills throughout students' academic journeys. Participants receive comprehensive assistance to immerse themselves fully in college life, ranging from joining clubs and activities to securing internships.  Social coaching is a fundamental component of the program, with a focus on areas such as interpreting social cues, problem-solving, and effective communication with faculty and peers. This coaching is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to navigate various social scenarios confidently.

The program offers additional services that include housing in a low-sensory residence hall, early move-in options to help students acclimate to campus life, specialized orientation activities to ensure a smooth transition to higher education, and developmental tailored workshops.  Active participation in a wide range of campus activities, including both small and large group events, is encouraged to further enhance social development. The SAIL program is committed to affirming neurodiversity and strives to build an inclusive and supportive community on the Curry College campus, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment for all participants.