Authentic Lessons for 21st Century Learning

THRIVE on Campus

Kelsey Willems, Amber Stokes | Published: March 16th, 2026 by K20 Center

Summary

This collection of five facilitator‑ready resources is designed to support college freshmen as they transition into campus life. Each activity can be completed in one hour or less and is flexible enough to be facilitated as a guided, seated experience or as a brief, self‑directed “grab‑and‑go” interaction. These resources are modular by design, allowing facilitators to respond to student interest, campus priorities, or program needs. The resources address key areas of student success—including community engagement, time management, health and wellness, FAFSA and financial literacy, and academic support services—helping students build confidence, connection, and readiness for college.

Resources

THRIVE on Campus: Community Engagement

Grade Level Grade Level

  • Secondary

Students who invest time and effort into academics and campus organizations experience positive academic outcomes. Getting involved in campus social life will make students feel more integrated into the campus community, improving their sense of belonging. Joining an academic club, fraternity/sorority,... Read more »

Educator Resource

Tag Target Audience

  • Teachers

Tag Calendar Placement

  • Any time of year

User Group Group Size

  • Individual, Large Group (at least 30), Medium Group (at least 10), Small Group

Tag Intention Or Purpose

  • Activate Prior Knowledge, Active Engagement, Brainstorming, Career Preparation Skills, Reason, Reflection, Self-assessment, Speak & Listen, Student Choice

Grade Level Grade Level

  • Secondary
More
Time Frame
THRIVE on Campus: Health and Wellness

Grade Level Grade Level

  • Secondary

Physical, mental, and emotional health is essential, especially when students are transitioning to a new life experience. Most PSIs (postsecondary institutes) have support to help improve student wellness. This can include individual counseling sessions, on-campus social events, or physical activities. Read more »

Educator Resource

Tag Target Audience

  • Teachers

Tag Calendar Placement

  • Any time of year

User Group Group Size

  • Individual, Large Group (at least 30), Medium Group (at least 10), Small Group

Tag Intention Or Purpose

  • Activate Prior Knowledge, Active Engagement, Annotating Text, Career Preparation Skills

Tag College & Career Readiness Framework

  • Extracurricular Activities

Grade Level Grade Level

  • Secondary
More
Time Frame
THRIVE on Campus: Paying for College

Grade Level Grade Level

  • Secondary

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the gateway to financial aid. By completing the FAFSA, students become eligible for various forms of financial assistance that can significantly offset the cost of their education. Filling out the FAFSA determines a student's eligibility for state... Read more »

Educator Resource

Tag Target Audience

  • Parents, Students, Teachers

Tag Calendar Placement

  • 4th Nine-Weeks

User Group Group Size

  • Large Group (at least 30), Medium Group (at least 10)

Tag Intention Or Purpose

  • Career Preparation Skills, College-Going Culture

Tag College & Career Readiness Framework

  • Paying for College, FAFSA, Grants, Scholarships and Loans

Grade Level Grade Level

  • Secondary
More
Time Frame
THRIVE on Campus: Time Management

Grade Level Grade Level

  • Secondary

Time blocking is a time management method that asks you to divide your day into blocks of time. By breaking down tasks into smaller pieces and organizing your schedule, you can allocate time effectively and ensure that you have enough time for studying, assignments, and other activities. An organized... Read more »

Educator Resource

Tag Target Audience

  • Campus Visits

Tag Calendar Placement

  • Any time of year

User Group Group Size

  • Medium Group (at least 10), Small Group

Tag Intention Or Purpose

  • Career Preparation Skills, Increase Teacher "Toolbox"

Grade Level Grade Level

  • Secondary
More
Time Frame
THRIVE on Campus: Academic Resources

Grade Level Grade Level

  • Secondary

Post Secondary Institutes (PSI) have a variety of support services to assist you in succeeding in your courses and activities. These resources can include math tutoring, maker spaces, writing labs, library support, etc. The list goes on, but it is not uncommon for students not to use these resources... Read more »

Educator Resource

Tag Target Audience

  • All Staff or Teachers, Mentor Teacher/Instructional Coaches, Parents, Teachers

Tag Calendar Placement

  • 1st Nine Weeks

User Group Group Size

  • Large Group (at least 30), Medium Group (at least 10)

Tag Intention Or Purpose

  • Career Preparation Skills, College-Going Culture

Tag Family Engagement

  • Supporting Student Success

Grade Level Grade Level

  • Secondary

Tag Related

  • Career
More
Time Frame

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