Starting college is exciting, but it also comes with new academic expectations. For Biology students, the transition can be especially demanding. That is why the Department of Biology at Barry University has made academic support a priority through its annual Academic Skills Bootcamp.

Now in its 12th year, the two-day Bootcamp gave first-year students practical strategies to navigate college-level coursework and build habits that support long-term success. After being welcomed by faculty and staff in the Department, students who participated in this year’s bootcamp received guidance on effective study strategies, time management, goal setting, critical thinking, problem-solving and developing a growth mindset; the sessions were led by Biology faculty Dr. Stephanie Bingham, Mr. Michael Bill and Dr. Flona Redway.

The Bootcamp is particularly valuable for students early in their academic careers. It helps students recognize potential challenges before they become roadblocks and gives them strategies they can continue using throughout their time at Barry.

Senior Biology students also joined the 2026 Bootcamp to share their experiences and offer advice for successfully navigating the degree program, getting involved on campus and exploring opportunities such as research and internships.

For one participant, the experience offered new perspectives on approaching college academics: “I enjoyed both sessions, very informational and opened my eyes to some new methods and strategies I should get in the habit of using throughout my years here at Barry.”

The Academic Skills Bootcamp is one part of the Department’s broader commitment to student success. Through research opportunities, mid-semester check-ins, Ask-a-Senior panels and career and graduate school events, students have access to support throughout their time in the program to help them achieve their professional career goals.