One Step Away Program

OSA logoOne Step Away (OSA) was launched in 2013 under the direction of Dr. Becky Verzinski, Assistant Vice President for Assessment. The idea stemmed from the state initiative to have over 55% of Maryland residents ages 25-64 earning at least an associate’s degree by 2025. OSA is designed to assist near-completers with re-enrollment and graduation. Since the program’s inception in 2013, the number of BSU graduates has increased by one percent each year.

The One Step Away Program is made possible through a Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) grant.

What OSA Does

  • Identifies students who qualify for program and conducts outreach efforts
  • Assists students with re-enrolling at BSU and problem solving administrative issues
  • Requires a POA (Plan of Action) for each student to ensure that he or she meets the necessary degree requirements and makes progress toward degree completion
  • Connects students with professors, administrators, counselors, tutors, and other personnel for academic and personal assistance
  • Works with Admissions, Financial Aid, Housing, Retention Coordinators, Career Development Center and other departments to provide resources to assist students
  • Identify various types of financial resources