Academic Coaching in Academic Support is an internationally certified peer educator program that contributes to student retention and degree completion. Guided by the College Reading and Learning Association level I, II, III peer educator training requirements, Academic Coaches facilitate an inclusive and welcoming environment to support students throughout their academic experience at Auburn University.
The learning strategies taught in Academic Coaching can be applied regardless of class standing, major, or past school experiences. At the first meeting, students are assessed regarding their academic skills, challenges, and goals. Students then meet with their Academic Coach for an average of five appointments per semester. Students are welcome to return at any time and are encouraged to continue working with the same coach. Below are possible areas of focus in our program:
- Academic goal-setting and follow-through
- Academic workload management
- Communication with campus professionals
- Concentration
- Memory strategies
- Navigating the college environment
- Note taking
- Presentation preparation and delivery
- Test preparation
- Test-taking
- Textbook reading
- Time management
- Wellness
What students say about Academic Coaching:
“I learned how often I should be studying, and I learned that writing study time in to my schedule is a good way to hold myself accountable.”
“I learned how to maintain motivation through the whole semester.”
“I learned that reviewing my notes often will keep me from cramming. I also learned different ways to focus while studying and the best times of the day to study.”
Meet the Academic Coaches:
Academic Coaches in Academic Support are graduate student peer educators dedicated to supporting student success. Coaches complete over 35 hours of training annually, as they earn their level I, II, and III Peer Educator Certifications. Coaches follow an annual training program that starts prior to the first day of class and continues throughout their employment. The content of this experience includes areas such as the coaching model and application, learning theories, teaching and counseling skills, and referral strategies. Coaches learn to create goal-driven plans and collaborate with students to achieve their desired outcomes in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Hannah Bamigbola
(she/her/hers)
Graduate Program: Human Development and Family Science (HDFS)
About: I’m Hannah, a doctoral student in Auburn University’s HDFS program. I completed my first, second and third degrees in 2007, 2018 and 2023 from Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, Nigeria, University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa, and Auburn University, Alabama respectively. I worked in administration/human resources/mental health for over a decade prior to pursuing my current graduate study at Auburn. Having gone through many transitions myself, I understand the challenges of transitioning into a new system and its impact on life generally. I look forward to helping you through your transitions as you navigate balancing the demands of academics through your journey at Auburn University!
Study Tip: If it’s worth doing at all, it’s worth doing well! Identify your study style early and stick to what works for you once identified.
Advice to AU Students: Stay true to yourself. Know your academic strengths and don’t shy away from your weaknesses. Nothing beats planning! Plan for success early and put in the work for the success you want to see. Ask for help and connect with resources available on campus at no cost!
Coaching Style: My work as a coach is centered on the belief that you are the expert on your journey while I am there to support you through. This means we will collaborate to co-create your goals and work towards achieving them. My aim is to create a safe, empathic, and supportive space for you to share your challenges, discover your strengths, and thrive as a student at Auburn University. I look forward to working with you as you work towards achieving your educational milestones.
Abby Chambliss
(she/her/hers)
Graduate Program: Higher Education Administration
About: Hi!! I’m Abby and I am in Auburn’s Higher Education master’s program! I recently graduated in May 2024 from Mississippi State University with a B.S. in Psychology and a minor in Gender Studies.
Study Tip: Give yourself some grace!! You can’t study well if you aren’t taking care of yourself!
Advice to AU Students: Get involved as much as you’re able! It is so important to meet new people and see what different aspects of campus have to offer!
Coaching Style: My coaching style is all about connection! I believe that by working together to create a plan we can find a place in which you feel successful and confident in your studies.
Ava Lauderdale
(she/her/hers)
Graduate Program: Clinical Mental Health Counseling
About: Hello! My name is Ava Lauderdale, and I am currently a student in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Auburn University, where I also earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology in May of 2024. I am from Santa Rosa Beach, Florida so I am very familiar with being out of state and away from home. I am deeply committed to helping others and have thoroughly enjoyed coaching students since beginning my journey in this field. I cannot wait to see your academic goals come to life!
Study Tip: A helpful study tip is to make consistent, daily progress rather than waiting until the last minute. By dedicating a bit of time each day, you can break down large tasks into manageable portions, helping to reduce the stress that often accompanies procrastination. This approach not only keeps you organized but also reinforces retention by allowing you to revisit and build on material gradually.
Advice to AU Students: My advice to Auburn students is to get involved! This beautiful campus offers a wealth of opportunities, including numerous clubs, campaigns, and student organization activities designed to improve your experience at Auburn. Engaging in these activities not only enhances your time here but also helps build a strong sense of community, allowing you to fully experience the strength and spirit of the Auburn family.
Coaching Style: My coaching style is all about staying organized, something I value both at work and in my personal life! I believe that having a clear plan—whether it’s keeping track of tasks, setting goals, or creating a routine—helps students stay on top of things and feel more confident. Being organized makes a big difference, and I love helping others find ways to make it work for them.
Elley Parker
(she/her/hers)
Graduate Program: Clinical Mental Health Program
About: Hello everyone! My name is Elley Parker, and I’m a graduate student in the Clinical Mental Health program. I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology, with a minor in counseling, from Auburn University—and my love for Auburn brought me back for graduate studies. I have a passion for working closely with undergraduate students and am thrilled to continue supporting others in their academic journey.
Study Tip: One piece of advice I often share with students is to establish a structured schedule. Maintaining a well-organized plan not only helps keep track of assignments but also balances external responsibilities. When we prioritize organization, we maximize productivity and stay on course with our educational goals.
Advice to AU Students: My advice would be to take full advantage of the resources Auburn University offers. Students here have access to valuable tools and support systems that can set them up for success. Get involved on campus, make the most of your time here, and remember—it goes by fast!
Coaching Style: My coaching approach centers on meeting students where they are. I aim to provide unwavering support and foster an environment where students feel comfortable being vulnerable. Together, we work diligently toward their academic goals, while also building confidence in their ability to sustain and expand upon their achievements.
Jessica Reaves
(she/her/hers)
Graduate Program: School Counseling
About: Hey there! I’m Jessica, a graduate student in Auburn University’s School Counseling program. In December 2020, I graduated with my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in English Literature from The University of Tennessee at Martin. I worked as a college advisor for two years before moving from Tennessee to Alabama in pursuit of a graduate degree. I know what it’s like to be a small fish in a big pond, but this is one amazing pond to be in! I’m so excited to help with your academic journey.
P.S. Weagle Weagle WDE!
Study Tip: My study tip is to treat your schedule like a budget. It’s tough to budget for unexpected things like a flat tire or an event at Sky, and it’s similarly easy for unexpected events to eat into your study time. To stay on track, plan ahead and allow for some flexibility in your schedule. It’s a surefire way to avoid falling behind when life throws surprises your way.
Advice to AU Students: You know the phrase “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have”? Well, some of the best advice I can offer is to start organizing, preparing, and studying like the student you aspire to be. Small positive changes in your daily habits can make a huge difference in your grades and stress level.
Coaching Style: As an academic coach and as a person, I believe in empathy and collaboration. My goal is to understand each student’s unique circumstances and goals to provide support that aligns with their individual needs. Together, we can explore campus resources, study strategies that work for you, and develop a plan to help you reach your academic goals. My aim is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can share your challenges and work together to achieve success. I look forward to being a part of your educational experience!