New Academic Success Center assists students

The grand opening of Augusta University’s Academic Success Center on Jan. 9 commemorated the introduction of a valuable new resource for students.

Located on the first floor of University Hall on the Summerville Campus, the 5,000-square-foot space was created to support new students as they navigate the unfamiliar territory of university-level coursework and help them reach their academic potential.

According to Dr. Lorraine Evans, executive director of the Academic Success Center, this modern facility’s opening reflects a changing dynamic within Augusta University. “We are a growing university with talented students who are engaged in learning. They are working hard toward competitive degree programs or future occupations,” she said.

Consequently, one of the center’s primary goals is helping students successfully transition into their chosen majors.

“Our focus is on freshmen and sophomores, students in the first two years, addressing core courses and general education,” Evans said. “We provide a space that supports learning and reduces their stress.”

The center’s commitment to helping freshmen and sophomores goes beyond traditional tutoring to pass and excel in their classes, however. Staff also teach new students useful tools and techniques about how to study for college.

“Most students follow a set of learning strategies, like reviewing material after class, which worked for them in high school,” Evans said. “When they come to university, however, they have to move through twice as much material in half the time, so their usual methods don’t work. They need to revise their study strategies. Our tutors help students with that, but we also have a full-time academic coach who provides workshops on study skills, time management and planning.”

With a staff of enthusiastic tutors and passionate leadership, the Academic Success Center is now focused on encouraging students to utilize the free services.

By cultivating an open, calm environment, the center attracts new students and encourages them to visit again. The design itself adds to the relaxing and collaborative atmosphere. It is difficult to be worried or anxious about your statistics grade while sitting on a bright-green bouncy ball chair.

Every aspect of the Academic Success Center is geared toward helping students succeed.

“This is a positive space,” Evans said. “This is the new way forward to help students reach their goals. So spread the word!”