The Academic Resource Center was created to enhance the student experience and prepare for a lifelong career in the performing and visual arts by providing support for academic, professional and personal wellness.
The Center is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Each academic advisor has drop-in hours, and students can also schedule individual appointments online.
We spoke to Dr. Kristen Queen about her role as Director of the Academic Resource Center and what tools are readily available to students in the College of Fine Arts.
Academic Resource Center
Dr. Kristen Queen, Director of the Academic Resource Center.
“I want to amplify existing resources and communicate these in a way that students feel is closer to home and relevant to their primary discipline.”
Queen established the Academic Resource Center to assist the broader needs of students. She is a professional flutist with a background in dance and theatre that has provided an understanding of students’ commitment to their disciplines. As a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200) with additional certificates in Performing Arts Health and Psychological First Aid, Dr. Queen is uniquely positioned to comprehensively address the needs of College of Fine Arts students as they experience some of the most important years of their development and artistic training.
“I knew our students really grapple with time and task management. We also have first-generation students, students from a low socioeconomic background, or those who struggle with food security.”
Queen’s goal is to serve students regardless of background and enhance their campus experience and success.
Wellness Week
The Academic Resource Center holds a Wellness Week every fall semester featuring guest speakers and student activities. This past fall’s events included a session with Monika Saigal, a nationally known nutritionist, spoke on a realistic approach to nutrition based on a student’s activity levels and diet.
Additionally, Dr. Merideth Estevez, a Juilliard-trained oboist, presented professional coaching through an artistic lens and hosted a Q&A on reframing negative self-talk. The center paid for students to have ten individual coaching sessions with Estevez and discuss strategies for their careers and next steps.
Advising & Enrollment
The Academic Resource Center is moving towards an advising model that is considered best practice by the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA). The model includes a professional staff advisor who is an expert on university requirements and a faculty mentor who can provide insight into strengthening a student’s portfolio and resume.
Commonly Asked Questions
Q: How many classes can I enroll in?
A: You have autonomy and a say in your schedule. Your advisor needs to know your priorities and goals to help determine class enrollment. Be confident in telling your story and sharing what’s important to you.
Q: Am I on track to graduate?
A: Use Purple Schedule Builder on my.tcu.edu to ensure you’re meeting university and degree requirements. It also allows you to search for classes and create a customizable schedule.
Q: What scholarships are available to cover my tuition and expenses?
A: Students can review their total financial aid package on my.tcu.edu. Look for additional private and university scholarships through the Office of Scholarships and Student Financial Aid.
Q: How do I prepare for my advisor meeting?
A: Make a list of questions and priorities for your advisor to review and provide answers.
Learn More