The Thriving Student Model is how we frame and think about student success at USD. The model is grounded in inclusive excellence, respect for all identities and experiences, and a holistic approach to student learning and development. By working across the model’s seven domains, Student Affairs and its many partners facilitate student flourishing. The model’s efficacy is measured against learning outcomes and our impact on student success.
Academic Success
Students’ academic success is centered on their sense of belonging, inclusion, engagement, supportive environment, persistence, confidence and love of learning. Student Affairs works to facilitate each of these components of students’ academic success.Belonging
Belonging is a student’s individual, perceived experience of mattering or feeling cared about, accepted, respected, valued by, and important to a group. It validates the personal value of one’s presence and contributions within campus, academic and social communities.
Experiential Learning
Experiential learning is a holistic, dynamic process involving students' critical reflection of their intellectual, emotional, physical, and spiritual experiences. This process can happen anywhere and anytime, shaping students' perceptions of themselves and the world they encounter.
Holistic Wellness
Student thriving is supported when the whole person and their emotional, financial, social, physical, spiritual, intellectual, occupational and environmental health are taken into consideration. These various dimensions of wellness are impacted through collective responsibility, collaboration, education and prevention.
Inclusive Community
Inclusive community denotes a constantly evolving (environment/space) that embraces the different experiences, attributes, and strengths of its members, working collectively to address, rethink and redesign systems and structures of inequality.
Joy
Joy encompasses a moment where one experiences emotions of elevated harmony, delight, balance, hope, or happiness. It is also a skill and capacity that involves being present, seeking renewal, and accessing agency.
Spirituality
Spirituality fosters students’ inner selves, values, and connections to the transcendent or meaningful aspects of life. In this domain, students practice self-reflection, embrace diverse religious and spiritual beliefs, and commit to personal growth and ethical living.