The Partnership
The Social Connection Project is the result of a collaborative partnership between Florida State University's Division of Undergraduate Studies and faculty in the Anne Spencer Daves College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences and the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy.
This partnership brings together student success professionals and researchers with a shared goal: helping students build meaningful social connections and a stronger sense of belonging at FSU. Research consistently shows that social connection can serve as a protective factor against suicide, suicidal ideation, depression, and self-harm while also supporting overall well-being, persistence, and academic success.
In launching this collaboration, the Suicide Prevention Research Team provided research expertise related to student well-being, belonging, and social connection, while the Division of Undergraduate Studies integrated these findings into the undergraduate student experience through First-Year Connections & Success within Engage 100.
The Intervention
As part of this effort, all sections of First-Year Connections and Success include a Social Connection Project, giving students the opportunity to identify, design, and promote strategies that help students connect with one another and engage more fully in campus life. First-Year Connections and Success is an Engage 100 course that supports students as they transition to Florida State University. Through discussions, reflection, and engagement opportunities, students learn how to navigate campus resources, develop meaningful relationships, and connect their academic, personal, and co-curricular experiences. The Social Connection Project provides students with a direct opportunity to apply these concepts while contributing ideas that may positively impact the broader FSU community.
The projects featured throughout this website represent student-generated ideas and initiatives designed to foster connection, strengthen belonging, and create a more supportive campus environment. Together, and the Suicide Prevention Research Team are committed to using research, education, and student voices to enhance the undergraduate experience and promote student well-being.
For more information about Engage 100, contact the team at ugs-engage@fsu.edu.