Student Disability Services has two Academic Support programs: our Academic Life Navigator program and a new Peer Academic Coaching program.
Student Disability Services piloted a peer Academic Coaching program for the Spring 2021 semester. The program was a success and has been renewed for the Fall 2021 semester!
The peer Academic Coaches will work with students with disabilities to provide regular coaching sessions focusing on helping students develop strategies and skills for academic success. The service is offered to students registered for classes at the University of Iowa and is available at no cost. Peer Academic Coaches will assist students in skill development in the following areas:
- Executive functioning such as juggling multiple tasks and planning/prioritizing
- Self-advocacy for navigating their college experience
- Self-management for academic and career paths
- Interpersonal communication skills
In Spring 2020, the Academic Life Navigator (ALN) program began as a pilot program in Student Disability Services (SDS) in collaboration with the Department of Rehabilitation and Counselor Education in the College of Education. Through a partnership with Dr. Erin Barnes from that department, one of their interns was placed in our office for the spring to work individually with students.
We are excited to share that ALN will be continuing during the 2021-2022 academic year. Our interns for the 2021-2021 academic year are Sarah Strub and Brandon Wong from the Department of Rehabilitation and Counselor Education in the College of Education.
For students who are already registered with our office and are interested in meeting one-on-one with a peer Academic Coach or ALN intern, reach out to your Access Consultant or email: sds-info@uiowa.edu or call 319-335-1462.
For more information, contact Vickie Houser at vickie-houser@uiowa.edu or click here for a link.