“When everything seems new and different, college can be scary sometimes. Our job as coaches is to make that transition less scary and to help students realize they have a support system in place here,” said Nathan Chandler, academic success coach with the University’s Academic Advising Office. 

Chandler works with students who qualify for the Will To Do Award, a scholarship program for Missouri freshmen eligible to receive the federal Pell Grant with a high school GPA of 2.75. Chandler helps these students plan and create action steps to form good study habits while introducing them to the various organizations and opportunities offered on campus.  

Academic Success Coaches can be found around the country at various educational institutions, but at Southeast the program has a unique component that allows it to stand out among the rest.  

“What makes our program so unique compared to other programs is that each student is also partnered with a peer advisor,” said Chandler. “Peer advisors are also students at Southeast, and they talk to ‘Will To Do’ students about their goals, questions, concerns and introduce them to the support resources the University offers.” 

‘Will To Do’ students should expect to meet with their peer advisors, or Chandler in his capacity as success coach, at least twice each semester. Students will also receive weekly communications via text or email with important reminders about upcoming events on campus as well as words of encouragement. 

“The wide array of support systems in place for undergraduate students sets Southeast apart from other institutions. We are serious about our goal of increasing the graduate rate, and we have introduced numerous interventions to help students stay on track and to complete their degree in a timely manner,” said Dr. Debbie Below, vice president of enrollment management and student success. “Academic Success Coaching and Peer Advising are exemplary examples of programs that are making a real difference to student success.”

“Personalized attention is Southeast’s focus. We place a priority on making sure a student always knows we are in their corner and here for whatever it is they need. The peer advisors and I are dedicated to making sure that a student’s time at Southeast is positive and enjoyable,” said Chandler.  

Through that personalized attention Chandler hopes they can foster a sense of community which has shown to be vitally important to the success of students both on and off campus.   

“I think if the past few years have shown us anything,” said Chandler, “it’s that feeling connected and finding community is so important. Through a success coach and peer advisor, the University has a way for students to find that connection as soon as they step on campus. They have a team that is ready to not only welcome them but also help them find fulfillment and success in all facets of campus life.” 

“The wide array of support systems in place for undergraduate students sets Southeast apart from other institutions. We are serious about our goal of increasing the graduate rate, and we have introduced numerous interventions to help students stay on track and to complete their degree in a timely manner,” said Dr. Debbie Below, vice president of enrollment management and student success. “Academic Success Coaching and Peer Advising are exemplary examples of programs that are making a real difference to student success.”