Message from the Vice Provost

Welcome to the University of 91ÊÓƵ Fairbanks (UAF) and the Division of Exploratory Studies and Academic Success (DEXSAS)! We're thrilled to have you join our community, and our team is dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.

Exploratory Studies is tailored to meet the needs of first-year bachelor’s and bachelor’s-intended exploratory students who are eager to explore their academic options and discover the "best fit" major for them. Through personalized academic advising, career assessments, guided exploration of majors and careers, and engaging programming that fosters student interaction with first-year advisors, support staff, faculty, and peer academic coaches, our students have the opportunity to uncover their passions and make well-informed decisions about their academic path.

In addition to assisting with academic exploration, advising in Exploratory Studies encompasses campus policies, offers guidance on achieving personal, academic, and career goals, and helps identify valuable resources and opportunities, as well as strategies for exploring majors and careers. DEXSAS-supported resources and opportunities include the Student Success Center, Office of Undergraduate Research and Scholarly Activity, Study Away Program, the Honors College, and the Undergraduate Interdisciplinary Studies program.

Our mission is to guide students through their transition into university life and aid them in selecting a major that aligns with their interests and aspirations. Our division aims to instill foundational knowledge, skills, and attitudes essential for students to become self-reliant and productive members of an increasingly diverse community. As such, we are fully committed to equipping our students with the skills, knowledge, and experiences necessary to successfully transition into a major that aligns with their goals.

Once again, welcome to DEXSAS and the Nanook Nation! We're excited to embark on this academic journey with you.

Trent Sutton headshot