Academic Services: An Environment for Students to Succeed

The environment of Academic Services is one that is quiet and calm, allowing many students who appear there to perform their very best on assignments. There are always helpful faculty who can assist in answering questions and organizing a student’s time. When you step into the Academic Services office, you see cubicles that are spaced between desks and also a large whiteboard at the adjacent side of the room for students to write down notes or help with equations or even create a time for work. 

There are also tools to help students focus and burn off excess energy, such as balancing on a board or yoga ball or using a desk bicycle. There are also noise-canceling headphones students can use to focus even more. The helpful staff is always present to meet with students and help them if necessary with their work. There is also a 15-year-old therapy dog named Ciccu who never fails at getting students to smile. 

Academic counselor Sienna Kimbell helps students organize their academic work and shares insights into the offerings and types of support provided.   

What is the difference between a student taking a test in academic services or a regular classroom?

Students who take tests in academic services have quiet settings, cubicles free of visual distractions, extra time on tests, and a reader if needed. 

What is the difference between a study hall and being in academic services? 

AS usually has fewer than eight students and physical adaptive supports such as fidget items, balance boards, desk cycles, and yoga balls.

What do the students think of academic services?

It is a place where students come to check-in for support and have professionals who know how to work with students of varying abilities who seem to enjoy being in AS even if they are not in their study hall.

Are there any known benefits to attending AS? 

Students learn proper study habits, know how to keep track of their assignments, and are given accommodations where they are needed. It is also helpful in the transition to college to have an Individual Student Support Plan (ISSP) and which provides them with priority registration, free counseling, and support services at college.