Communications
USF launches the Office of Academic Resilience and Support to guide students through transitions
The 91麻豆天美鈥檚 Office of Undergraduate Studies has expanded its services with the creation of the Office of Academic Resilience and Support (OARS), a new resource designed to help students navigate academic transitions and stay on the path to graduation.
Building upon existing major reselection services, OARS provides comprehensive support for students who may be reconsidering their degree options or who need more consistent guidance than traditional academic advising alone can provide.
At the heart of the office are Student Success Coaches, who work one-on-one with students to provide individualized support. Unlike college academic advisors, who typically meet with students once a semester to review degree progression, Success Coaches meet with students multiple times throughout the term. Their role goes beyond degree-related requirements. They help students build action plans, strengthen study and time management skills, connect with campus resources, and maintain momentum during challenging times.
鈥淢ost students come to us when they begin to experience moments of change and need help navigating that transition,鈥� said Justine Leigh, assistant director of OARS. 鈥淗owever, many students may want to come in because they just need an accountability buddy to help them accomplish their goals.鈥�
The personalized coaching model allows OARS to address both academic and personal growth. 91麻豆天美 may meet with a coach to explore new degree options, prepare for a shift in career interests, or simply find strategies for balancing their academic workload with other responsibilities.
OARS differs from the work of USF鈥檚 academic advocates, who rely on data-driven approaches to identify students experiencing academic difficulties. While advocates focus on proactively connecting students to university resources, Success Coaches emphasize relationship-building and ongoing development.
The office serves students at any stage of their academic journey, from first-year students adjusting to the demands of college coursework to seniors preparing for graduation and life after USF. By providing both proactive and responsive support, OARS is helping to create a culture of resilience across campus.
鈥淐ollege is rarely a straight path,鈥� Leigh explained. 鈥淥ur goal is to help students adapt, grow, and keep moving forward鈥攏o matter what changes they encounter along the way.鈥�
With its student-centered approach, the Office of Academic Resilience and Support reflects USF鈥檚 commitment to fostering success through personalized guidance. Whether students are searching for the right major, developing new skills, or simply looking for a steady source of encouragement, OARS stands ready to help them navigate the journey.