What does it take for students to not just survive—but thrive—in college?
That question has long guided the work of Dr. Iman Salehinia, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Northern Illinois University. As an educator deeply committed to student success, Dr. Salehinia recently launched a new video series on his educational YouTube channel, MechCADemy, titled: “College Success Series: Top Strategies from a Professor”
The series delivers the kind of advice he believes every college student should hear in their first semester—advice grounded in over a decade of university teaching, supported by student voices and backed by cognitive and educational research. Although MechCADemy was originally created for mechanical engineering students, the insights in this new series extend far beyond a single discipline. Whether students are studying chemistry, physics, sociology, computer science, or any other major, the challenges—and the strategies for success—are often remarkably similar.
More Than Just a Lecture: What Makes This Series Different
What sets this series apart is its perspective. As a professor, Dr. Salehinia offers insights that come from years spent on both sides of the classroom. His advice is not only informed by teaching but also by listening. In preparing the series, he surveyed over 130 senior students at NIU, asking them: “What advice would you give to students just starting your major?”
The responses were both practical and heartfelt. Common themes emerged, forming the foundation for the nine sections of the series:
- Mastering Fundamental Concepts
- Time Management and Class Assignments
- Attending Classes Regularly
- Communicating with Professors
- Forming Study Groups
- Developing Professional Habits
- Gaining Practical Industry Experience
- Staying Mentally Resilient
- Exam Essentials
The videos incorporate research-based study strategies, personal stories, and reflections from students who have successfully navigated the path through college. The result is a rich, human-centered resource designed to make a real impact on student learning and well-being.
A Resource for Students and Educators
While the College Success Series is designed for students, it also holds value for educators, advisors, and mentors. Dr. Salehinia believes that student success goes far beyond coursework and assessments—it involves mentorship, connection, and helping students develop agency in their learning.
The videos encourage educators to reflect on how they engage with students and how small changes in approach—like emphasizing active learning or creating a sense of community—can yield significant outcomes.
Building a Learning Community—One Video at a Time
MechCADemy was launched with a clear mission: to bridge the gap between theory and practice in mechanical engineering. But the channel quickly grew into something larger—a space where students could feel seen, supported, and inspired.
The College Success Series continues that mission by expanding the focus to the broader student experience. It’s about cultivating curiosity, resilience, and confidence, both inside and outside the classroom. It’s also about creating an inclusive learning environment where students know that challenges are part of the process—and that support is always within reach.
Students from a range of disciplines have already found value in the series, and faculty members have begun sharing the videos with their own students as supplemental material for advising and mentorship.
An Invitation to Explore—and Share
The Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning (CITL) encourages all faculty and staff to explore the College Success Series on MechCADemy. It is a valuable resource for students at all stages of their academic journey—whether just starting out, midway through their program, or approaching graduation—as well as for educators seeking fresh and effective ways to support student learning and engagement.
Whether it’s advice about managing time, navigating exams, or simply staying resilient through challenges, Dr. Salehinia’s series is a timely reminder that student success is a shared responsibility—and that we all have a role to play.
Together, we can help our students thrive!
👉 Watch the playlist: College Success Series – MechCADemy
📺 Subscribe to the channel: MechCADemy YouTube Channel
