We all face a choice when something goes wrong: sit with the problem, or figure out what to do about it. Learn why dwelling can actually get in the way of solving, and try the simple 3-minute rule that helps stuck students shift from venting to action.

You want to know that your child is thriving in college in all aspects of their life: academically, socially, and personally. We know that the transition into college life can raise a lot of questions for parents. We’ve compiled a list of the most common questions parents ask our Director of Academic Coaching, Kimberly Tierney, about academic coaching, executive functioning, and how we support students. 

Once the initial excitement has worn off, many students find themselves overwhelmed with their classwork, homework, and complicated schedules. Adjusting to the planning and time management demands of college can be difficult and frustrating. At Tierney Education, our coaches help you feel confident and in control of your academic success! Our goal is to help you build the skills you need to do it all on your own. 

There is a lot to do when preparing to start college! The summer between high school and college is filled with excitement, nerves, and a never ending list of tasks to complete and things to buy. We understand this challenge and are here to help!

Kimberly Tierney brings over a decade of experience as a school psychologist and has worked extensively with students to support executive functioning, social-emotional development, and academic growth. She holds a degree in Cognitive Science from the University of California, Irvine, and both a Master’s and an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Psychology from Chapman University.

One of the most common mistakes college students make is equating “nothing due” with “nothing to do.” It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that if there aren’t any immediate deadlines, you can take the day off. But in reality, staying ahead is one of the best ways to manage stress, stay in control, and set yourself up for success—however you define it.

As an academic coach, I’ve seen it countless times—students relying solely on the Canvas calendar to keep track of their assignments and deadlines. While the calendar is a useful tool, it has one major flaw: not every professor uses it consistently. Some assignments, readings, or even major announcements don’t show up in the calendar, which leaves students at risk of missing important information. This can lead to unnecessary stress and last-minute panic, something we all want to avoid.

One of the fundamental principles I've taken from the classroom to opening Tierney Education is the importance of student buy-in. This isn't just about students showing up for sessions; it's about them actively engaging and taking responsibility for their own learning journey.

Navigating college is a pivotal journey for many young adults, marking their first true taste of independence. This transition into the collegiate world is a leap from the structured support of high school to an environment where guidance is available yet requires active pursuit. The leap to university life, with its reduced oversight and increased personal accountability, can be seamless for some but daunting for others. The challenge of managing academic duties alongside personal responsibilities can quickly become overwhelming, leading to potential setbacks in both academic performance and well-being.