Academic Coaching
What is Academic coaching?
What training do the Learning Specialists have?
All Learning Specialists have academic backgrounds in education and/or counseling and have specialized training in academic coaching theory and techniques. Additionally, they have prior experience working with adult learners in higher education.
In what areas can Learning Specialists assist?
Areas of consultation include, but are not limited to:
- Organization for Learning
- Error Analysis/Tests
- Time Management
- Reading Rate/Comprehension
- Board Review Preparation
- Test Taking
- Memorization
- Note Taking
- Learning Styles
- Test Anxiety
- Combating impostor syndrome
How can educational coaching help me?
We think the most important measure of the impact of coaching is the feedback we receive from students at UTHSC. See below for feedback we’ve received on coaching:
I absolutely love my learning specialist. She has been a tremendous help in reducing test anxiety, helping me prepare a study schedule, and stick to it. When we meet, she asks such great questions to get to the heart of what issues I'm facing and helps me problem solve to better prepare for tests. Every minute with her is valuable.
My learning specialist was so friendly and honestly helpful. She gave me at least 3 strategies, specific for me, that I was able to start using. I did see an improvement in my study habits and reduction in stress before my exam. She made me feel more confident in my ability to focus and I will continue to use her advice!
My learning specialist is a wonderful human being who always makes my day so much better and really helps me get to the heart of whatever is going on. She always takes time to ask about how I am doing outside of school, which is really impactful. She meets me on my level and carefully evaluates what change is reasonable for me in my study plan. Academic Success is great and my learning specialist is amazing.
How can I meet with a Learning Specialist?
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Students can meet individually or in a group with an Academic Success Learning Specialist to develop personalized learning strategies and identify areas of strength and growth to enhance academic success. Appointments are available in person, online, or by phone, Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. CST. Coaching sessions can be scheduled by phone or online. Academic Success is located in the Health Science Library, 2nd floor, Room 226.
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Appointments can be scheduled at https://uthsc.navigate.eab.com/app/
How do I prepare for my appointment?
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To get the most out of your coaching session, come prepared with a few key ideas and materials:
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Identify specific academic challenges you want to address (ie. exams, time management, note-taking)
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Bring relevant course materials such as syllabi, assignments, or recent test results (if available)
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Be ready to discuss your current study habits and what is or isn’t working
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Consider your academic goals for the semester
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Come with an open mind to explore new strategies
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Being prepared helps make your session more focused, productive, and tailored to your success.
What should I expect if I’m meeting due to academic probation?
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If you are meeting with an Academic Success due to academic probation, the session will focus on understanding what led to your current academic standing and creating a plan for improvement. Your Learning Specialist will review your academic history with you and discuss any challenges that may have impacted your performance. Together, you will identify patterns, explore areas for growth, and develop strategies to strengthen your study habits, time management, and overall academic approach.
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The meeting is supportive and solution-focused, not punitive. You will work collaboratively to create a realistic, personalized plan with clear next steps to help you return to good academic standing and stay on track moving forward.
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For some students, meetings may occur multiple times over the course of the semester. Each session builds on the previous one, allowing you to reflect on strategies you’ve implemented, discuss ongoing challenges or improvements, and review exam performance. Meetings are tailored to your individual needs and goals.