June 30, 2025
When you think of academic advising, the focus often centers around course registration. However, advising has evolved into a holistic approach that encompasses student success, retention, and comprehensive support for students.
At East Mississippi Community College (EMCC), four years ago, advising was primarily an add-on related to course registration. Since then, the Office of Advising, Retention, and Student Success has transformed into a centralized resource for "all things" related to student support.
This evolution is exemplified by Ms. Lidia Portera, an EMCC graduate and a recent May 2025 graduate of Mississippi State University (MSU). Lidia began her journey at EMCC on August 16, 2021, while balancing work and life in West Point. Her passion for hunting, fishing, and caring for her animals led her to pursue a degree in Agricultural Science at MSU, where she earned a place on the Dean’s List.
Before attending MSU, Lidia's educational journey started at EMCC, where I had the pleasure of serving as her academic advisor. Academic advisors play a vital role for students, providing support that ranges from being a listening ear to helping develop advocacy skills. The Office of Advising, Retention, and Student Success serves as the hub for student persistence, retention, and overall success, tailoring support to meet the needs of each student.
Although Lidia was focused, she was initially undecided about her specific path. To gain clarity, she utilized Career Coach and other research tools to explore her options. This preparation enabled her to graduate from EMCC in May 2023 as a Magna Cum Laude and to transfer to MSU as a junior to complete her final two years of study.
I am proud that Lidia chose to share her graduation news with me, and I am confident that she will achieve great things in the future. Thank you, Lidia, for choosing EMCC and placing your trust in us throughout your educational journey.
Congratulations on your achievements! Onward and upward!
Dr. Nikita L. Ashford-Ashworth, Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Success
"East Mississippi Community College has provided an exceptional foundation for my academic and personal growth. The professors' dedication has fostered my development into a stronger student. EMCC offered numerous opportunities for me to excel, both in academics and extracurricular activities. Here, I've built incredible friendships that will undoubtedly last a lifetime. The knowledge I gained and the memories I made at EMCC will forever be a part of me when I embark on my journey to a four-year college."
“I chose EMCC because it gave me the best opportunities coming out of high school. I got plenty of scholarships because the school offered so many. An Education is a very powerful tool.”
"EMCC isn't just a place to learn, it's home. Passionate instructors around every corner offered an opportunity to grow. Remember - there's a whole community invested in your success."
"East Mississippi Community College has been an incredible launching pad for my future! I'm so grateful for the knowledge and experiences I've gained here!"
1512 Kemper St., Scooba, MS 39358
662.476.5000
8731 South Frontage Rd., Mayhew, MS 39753
662.243.1900
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