Academic Coaching
Peer Academic Coaching
Peer Academic Coaching is a student-to-student support system where trained undergrad coaches assist their peers in developing essential academic skills. Whether it involves improving time management, creating effective study strategies, or preparing for exams, peer coaches provide relatable guidance and practical tools to help students “student better.”
PAC: One-Time Appointment
Not sure if academic coaching is right for you? Try a one-time session for personalized guidance on one of our many topics. If you find it helpful, you can continue working with your peer coach for more sessions!
PAC: Recurring Appointments
Meet with your peer coach regularly each week for personalized support and accountability over time. You can expect an overview of effective academic techniques and time to tailor them to your specific courses.
The program is designed for undergraduates, and space is limited.
Learning Specialists
Learning Specialists
Learning Specialists are full-time professionals who offer personalized support. These sessions are perfect for students facing complex academic challenges, adjusting to course demands, or managing learning differences. Specialists work individually with students to discuss motivation, develop executive functioning skills, and establish sustainable academic strategies.
FAQ
What is a Learning Specialist?
A Learning Specialist is a trained academic coach who helps students improve their study strategies, time management, test preparation, and overall learning effectiveness. They are part of the Sanger Learning Center team.
Can I meet regularly with a Learning Specialist?
Yes! Students can request recurring appointments or weekly check-ins. You may also be referred to a PAC coach or study workshop depending on your needs.
Are appointments in person or on Zoom?
Appointments are available both in person and via Zoom. When scheduling, you'll see options for in-person, Zoom, and student's choice. Make the selection that works best for your preferred format and schedule.
- Zoom appointments will use a link specific to the Learning Specialist you sign up to meet with.
- In-person sessions are held at the Sanger Learning Center in Jester Center (JES A332A). Just check in at the front desk when you arrive.
I've been told I need to meet with a Learning Specialist. What now?
If you're required to meet with a Learning Specialist, here’s what to do:
- Schedule your appointment ASAP through the SLC website or by phone.
- Prepare to discuss your current academic habits and challenges.
- Bring any documentation or questions you may have.
- Follow up: You may be encouraged to attend workshops or additional coaching sessions.
How long are the appointments?
Appointments are scheduled for one hour, but they typically wrap up after 45–50 minutes. This allows the Learning Specialist time to complete notes and send any digital follow-up materials. You’ll still get a full session of personalized support, and any resources or action items will be shared with you afterward.
Learning Specialist Topics
Academic Warning
Guidance on study techniques and individual support.
Dissertation / Thesis Planning
Strategies for goal setting, motivation management, and accessing campus resources.
Reading Effectively for College
Guidance on improving reading efficiency and retention
Study Effectiveness
Assistance in identifying study methods suited to specific courses
Studying with ADHD/Learning Disabilities
Time management and study methods tailored to individual needs.
Test Anxiety
Techniques to support preparation and reduce anxiety
Test Preparation and Test Taking—Non-STEM Courses
Approaches for multiple choice, short answer, essay tests, and others
Time Management & Planning
Methods to manage workload and address procrastination
Other
Let us know what you need! We can support you with planning for major tasks such as exams or projects, identifying all campus resources, concentration, motivation, note-taking, and similar topics.