All Early College Program students are assigned an Academic Success Coach to serve as a mentor, assist with the transition into college, and to help students grow and develop critical skills, such as time management, organization, study habits, and note taking. The Academic Success Coach is also a college student; they’re able to relate to students’ experiences and provide the tools necessary to succeed. Balancing both high school and college classes is highly impressive, but also challenging at times! Students can collaborate with their Academic Success Coach to identify goals and strategize how to achieve those goals throughout the semester.
Meet The Academic Success Coach! Name: Samantha Zakrzewski Major: BA/MA Psychology Minor: Social Work Year: First year graduate student As a recent graduate of Montclair State University, Samantha can relate to the experiences of students and assist them with their transition from high school into college. In addition to working as the Academic Success Coach, Samantha also works in a research lab on campus that studies spatial abilities in both developing children and adolescents with Down Syndrome. Outside of the office, she enjoys traveling, reading, spending time with family and friends, baking, and playing with her dog!
What can the Academic Success Coach help me with? The Academic Success Coach helps high school students who are enrolled in college classes learn to read their syllabi, locate classes, and better adjust to the differences between high school and college. Is an Academic Success Coach a tutor? No! While tutors help students with course specific topics, the Academic Success Coach helps students strengthen their skills, such as time management, learning styles, organization, and more! Where can I find my Academic Success Coach? Your Academic Success Coach is located in the CAST Tutoring Center, which is in the Henry Sprague Library! Be sure to email the Academic Success Coach for their scheduled hours. How do I make an appointment? Are appointments virtual or in person? Appointments are offered both in person or virtual, depending on the needs of the student! Instructions for making an appointment can be found here. What are the “tickets”? Early College Students will have the opportunity to win prizes at the end of the semester! Meeting with your Academic Success Coach, completing Canvas modules, and attending study sessions are just a few of the ways you can earn tickets.
Please email earlycollege@montclair.edu with any questions!