5 Ways to Ensure Your College Student is Maximizing Their Academic Coaching Experience
College can be an exciting yet challenging time – not just for students, but for their families too. As a parent, you want to see your student thrive academically and personally. While academic coaching isn’t about tutoring, it’s a powerful resource for developing the executive functioning skills that lead to lasting success. Here are five key strategies to help your college student make the most of their academic coaching experience:
1. Encourage Clear Goal Setting
Academic coaching works best when students know what they want to achieve. Encourage your student to work with their coach to set specific, measurable goals. Whether it’s improving time management, organizing study habits, or boosting overall academic performance, clear goals provide direction and motivation. Ask them to revisit these goals regularly and adjust them as needed.
2. Promote Open Communication
The benefits of academic coaching come from honest and regular conversations. Remind your student that their coach is there to help—not to judge. Open communication about challenges, successes, and even setbacks can pave the way for tailored strategies that truly work. As a parent, you can support this by checking in casually about how the sessions are going without prying too much.
3. Foster Accountability and Self-Reflection
Accountability is a cornerstone of personal growth. Encourage your student to track their progress and reflect on what strategies are working or need tweaking. This self-reflection helps them become more aware of their habits and more willing to take responsibility for their academic journey. A quick conversation over dinner about what they learned in their coaching session can reinforce these habits.
4. Emphasize Skill-Building Beyond the Books
Academic coaching isn’t just about grades – it’s about developing lifelong skills. Encourage your student to embrace the broader aspects of coaching, like improving time management, organization, and stress management. These skills will serve them well in both their academic and future professional lives. Recognize that growth may be gradual, and every small improvement is a step forward.
5. Celebrate Progress and Adapt Strategies
Every student’s journey is unique, and progress often comes in unexpected ways. Celebrate your student’s victories—big or small—and remind them that setbacks are simply opportunities to learn and adjust. Encourage them to work with their coach to adapt strategies if something isn’t working. This adaptive mindset not only boosts resilience but also reinforces the value of the coaching experience.
Supporting your college student’s academic coaching experience means nurturing an environment where clear goals, open communication, accountability, and continuous growth are prioritized. By encouraging these practices, you’re not just helping them improve academically—you’re investing in their overall development and success. Remember, as parents, your supportive role is invaluable, and sometimes a little gentle guidance can make a world of difference.
