Native Student Services

 

Native Student Services (NSS) provides a safe, affirming space on campus for Alaska Native, Native American, and Indigenous students. It is a gathering place where incoming and current students can find academic, advising, and cultural support; access resources; study with classmates; attend culturally empowering events, connect with community representatives; and interact with people who share similar experiences as Indigenous peoples.

NSS is the only place at UAA that serves all Native students, regardless of major, degree, or class standing. All Indigenous students are welcome! 

 

Three NSS staff outside in front of wooden carved Native Student Services sign

 

What you can find at NSS

  • Advising
  • Quiet study spaces
  • Maybe a cousin you've never met
  • Cultural events
  • People who speak your language
  • Printing Station
  • Advocacy
  • Native clubs
  • Drinks and snacks
  • Other Native folk
  • Beading corner
  • Scholarship resources

 

Scholarship and Funding Resources

Explore Native Clubs

 

NET Program

 The NET Program supports Native students as they transition to being a college student and to the UAA campus with transition support as well as ongoing academic and cultural support. There are a lot of steps to navigate (financial aid/scholarships, placement testing, housing application, course registration, etc.)-- we'll help each step of the way to get ready!

For Fall semester only: NET students living on campus move into the residence halls a week early and attend an orientation that week where they will make sure they are ready for the first day of classes while also building community with other NET students.

For Fall and Spring semesters: The NET Program continues through students' first year at UAA with the NET Program course for college credit and just for NET students. The course provides guidance on navigating college with academic and cultural support, grounded in Alaska Native values and with visit from Native community members and Elders. 

If you are interested: 

Complete Spring 2024 NET Program Application

Complete the application and Paula Jones (NSS Student Services Coordinator) will be in contact to talk to you more about the NET Program!

  Fall Semester 2022 NET class outside of Native Student Services

 NSS Staff

Valerie Svancara

Interim Director 

907-786-4001 / vsvancara@alaska.edu

Paula Jones

Student Services Coordinator

907-786-4008 / pfjones2@alaska.edu

Marissa Vinberg

Student Services Coordinator-Advisor

907-786-4002 / mvinberg@alaska.edu

Cheryl Turner

Office Manager

907-786-4003 / caturner4@alaska.edu