Free coaching for CDU students to support their academic success

Students at Charles Darwin University (CDU) now have access to free student coaching to help them with their professional and academic success.

The pilot Student Success Coach Program has commenced by working with students undertaking the Bachelor of Education (Primary), Master of Teaching (Primary) and Bachelor of Law. 

CDU is considering rolling out the initial pilot program to all students across different disciplines at the University.

The coaching sessions involve working with students to help them develop and implement academic, career and personal goals. 

CDU Student Success Coach Jessica Miller said coaches would guide students along their pathways to academic and personal success to best support their university experience.

“We aim to motivate and assist students through supportive relationships, helping them align their everyday actions to their short- and long-term academic and career goals,” Ms Miller said.

“We will initiate and maintain proactive, individualised coaching sessions, keeping students engaged in the successful advancement of their degrees.”

The coaches help students gain a deeper appreciation of their strengths and identify skills and qualities that are needed to be successful in their chosen careers.

CDU Bachelor of Education student Niamh Murphy-O’Neil who has signed up for the Student Success Coach Program said it has motivated her to achieve academic goals.

“Throughout the semester my coach has been able to assist me in navigating Learnline, finding key parts of lectures that were most useful, reminding me when quizzes and major assessments are due, and discussing ideas for assignments,” Ms Murphy-O’Neil said.

“The outcome of this experience was incredibly positive. The support and accountability the coach has provided me with are unmatched and I don't believe I would have continued with my studies without the support.”

A Student Success Coach also works with students to inform and suggest ways in which specific support services can be provided to assist students while at university and also with their chosen careers.

These include getting students in touch with student counsellors, First Nations Student Services, the Careers Centre and Academic Language and Learning.

CDU will be recruiting more Success Coaches later in the year. To find out more about the program contact the coaching team at coaching@cdu.edu.au