As we speak with parents, we often hear the question: “If a college has a strong student success office or offers additional paid support, why would we still need a College Success Plan coach?”
Every student is unique, and every college is unique as well. As you consider the support systems your student will need to thrive in college, it’s crucial to recognize that getting help from the beginning can make all the difference in their long-term success. College Success Plan’s academic and executive function coaching programs offer personalized support that may differ significantly from what’s available on campus, helping your student maximize their college experience right from the start.
Who are the coaches?
On Campus Support:
Support may be provided by peer counselors (fellow students who have achieved high grades).
Students may not be able to meet with the same coach consistently.
College Success Plan:
Coaches have advanced degrees primarily in education and go through an intensive in-house training program.
Students work with one coach throughout the entire semester.
Does my student need to sign up each week?
On Campus Support:
On-campus programs often require the student to schedule an appointment each time they need to meet. This can be a challenge for a student already struggling with time management
College Success Plan:
Students meet with their coach (at least) once each week at a standing weekly meeting – same time and day each week.
Additional sessions are added depending upon what needs to be addressed each week.
Will I be kept informed of how my student is doing?
On Campus Support:
Reporting to parents varies depending on the school and program.
Outreach to parents may be limited by FERPA and the college’s policies regarding parent/guardian communication.
College Success Plan:
Parents receive weekly email updates from the coach.
Weekly email includes ongoing grade tracking.
Parents also receive comprehensive midterm and end-of-term reports.
Can my student reach out for help in between sessions?
On Campus Support:
Varies from school to school, but it is unusual to have the ability to reach out in the moment for help without a scheduled appointment.
Parent communication may be limited.
College Success Plan:
Coaches and students text frequently during the week.
Coaches encourage students to reach out so they can problem-solve together when needed.
Parents can email their coach whenever they have questions or concerns.
Is there help with transitioning from high school?
On Campus Support:
Students usually first meet the support staff when they arrive on campus.
College Success Plan:
Students start meeting with their coach the summer before freshman year.
Students partake in our robust transition to college program, and coaches are also available to help with class registration, orientation, accommodations, etc.
Ultimately, while university success centers offer valuable resources, their services (even through paid programs) are often generalized, limited in scope, and subject to availability. In contrast, hiring a private College Success Plan coach provides a highly personalized, flexible, and consistent level of support tailored to each student's unique needs and goals. Typical results are better grades, lower stress, improved organization, and a clear path to independence.
With a private coach, a student’s success isn’t tied to the services of any one institution. Big school, small school, and anywhere in between – we work with them all. This means that wherever your student chooses to pursue their education, they can thrive with the individualized strategies and support a private coach delivers, ensuring that the skills they develop lead to success both in college and beyond.
Share this:
Join Our College Parent Newsletter!
Get stories and expert advice on all things related to college and parenting.
