The Academic Success Program

Who may use the Academic Success Program?

All currently enrolled students may use the Academic Success Program. It is for:

• Students who want to enhance their study skills.

• Students who find it challenging to keep up with their fast-paced curriculum and would like to learn how to study "smarter, not harder."

• Students who are having academic difficulty.

• Students who are stressed out and overwhelmed.

What can I expect from the Academic Success Program?

Assessment and Plan

The counselor will determine your learning strengths and weaknesses using interview and a variety of assessments.  Once areas of improvement have been pinpointed, the counselor will assist you in developing a specific plan for reaching your academic goals.

Skill Instruction 

The skill instruction portion of the program serves to fill gaps in learning techniques that become apparent when a student's abilities are stressed by a fast-paced and rigorous curriculum. The student will receive personal instruction, handouts and supplementary readings to gain the recommended skills. During the fall semester, a series of study skill workshops are available.

Follow-Up

We like to know how students are doing following study skill planning and instruction.  We encourage students to keep us informed of their progress, especially if a change of courses calls for adjustments to the study skill plan. 

When should I call the Academic Success Program?

We suggest that students first ask for help from their course directors.   The faculty are the topic experts and will assist you with understanding course material that may be unclear.  If, after consulting your professors, you do not experience a noticeable improvement in test grades, or you continue to struggle with study skills, don't hesitate to call.  The earlier you seek intervention, the better.   

What study skills topics are covered?

Individual instruction and a fall workshop series is offered on the following topics:

• Time management

• Organizing material for learning

• Study routine

• Note-taking

• Exam skills

• Coping with test anxiety

• Improving memory

• Improving reading speed and comprehension

• Approaches to board examinations

How much does it cost?

Services of the Academic Success Program are free of charge to students enrolled at UNMC.

How much time does it take?

Typically, it takes from one to three hours to complete the assessment/planning/instruction process.  Students may schedule this in whatever increments are convenient to their schedule.

What if I just want to work on study skills myself?

We can recommend many study guides, video-tapes, books and web sites on survival in the health sciences.

What about tutoring?

We can help you determine if individualized tutoring would be appropriate for your situation and suggest where you might go to find an appropriate tutor. 

How do I make an appointment?

Appointments are available Monday-Friday, 9am-4:30 pm.  We are located in the Student Life Center, room 3013.

Jennifer Peter, M.A.
 559-5962

mailto: jpeter@unmc.edu