Parent Q&A: Your Top Questions About Academic Coaching Answered
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.
What is academic coaching?
Academic coaching is a personalized, strengths-based approach that helps students succeed by combining elements of academic advising, executive function training, and mentorship.
Executive Function Training: We help students build crucial skills like organization, time management, and follow-through so they can stay on top of their workload.
Academic Advising Support: Our coaches guide students in making informed decisions about their classes and academic path, preparing for meetings, and planning each semester effectively.
Mentorship: We provide guidance on setting personal, social, and academic goals to support overall well-being and growth.
At the center of these areas is a supportive coaching relationship that helps students develop habits, systems, and confidence to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
What kind of study skills will you be teaching?
We teach research-backed strategies grounded in learning science. Our focus is on helping students discover what works best for them, while introducing techniques proven effective for most learners. We break things down into small, manageable habits that are easier to stick to.
Some of the strategies we cover include:
Spaced Practice: Spreading out study sessions over time instead of cramming
Active Recall: Testing yourself on material rather than just re-reading notes.
Time Blocking: Structuring your day with dedicated blocks for studying, breaks, and rest.
Prioritization Techniques: Breaking big tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.
Note-Taking Methods: Finding a system that fits your learning style—like Cornell Notes or digital tools such as Notion or OneNote.
Our goal is to help students build consistent, effective habits that will serve them throughout college and beyond.
What does a typical session look like?
Each session follows a consistent structure while allowing for individualized support. The first half is the same for all students—we use the GAMA Method (Grades, Assignments, Modules, and Announcements). We walk through each class in Canvas one by one to check for updates, track grade changes, and ensure nothing is slipping through the cracks.
The second half of the session is customized to the student’s needs. Topics may include study strategies, note-taking, organization, time management, how to email professors or attend office hours, navigating roommate challenges, or preparing for campus events and balancing commitments. Each session is tailored to help students meet their personal and academic goals.
Do you set up things with the student or do you go through me (the parent)?
Parents are typically involved in the initial setup process. After that, sessions are scheduled directly with the student on a recurring basis. We believe it’s important for students to take ownership of the process and begin building independence and accountability.
How do you measure improvement?
Progress is measured based on each student’s individual goals. For example, if a student is working on assignment completion, we track whether weekly tasks are submitted on time. If a student has GPA goals, we monitor their academic performance throughout the semester. Growth is always evaluated in relation to what the student is aiming to achieve.
Is this expected to be all four years?
Not necessarily. Our goal is to work ourselves out of a job! We aim to equip students with the tools, strategies, and confidence they need to be successful on their own.
Is there communication with us, the parents?
Yes. Our package includes weekly sessions with the student and monthly email updates for parents highlighting growth and progress. Parents also have the option to request 30-minute virtual check-ins throughout the semester.
Do you help with note taking?
Absolutely. We teach students research-based, effective note-taking methods to help them better retain and understand course material.
Do you work with students outside of PSU?
Yes! While we specialize in Penn State systems, we work with students from a variety of schools—including middle school, high school, and colleges and universities across the country.
At Tierney Education, Kim and our team are committed to helping students move from feeling lost to feeling in control—one session, one strategy, and one success at a time. If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support your student’s journey every step of the way.
