Frequently Asked Questions | AcademicAlly

Question 1

Why should we hire an educational consultant?

Accepted Answer

Academic coaches have the resources to assist not only students but their families as well. We understand the challenges parents and students face when trying to overcome learning differences, ADHD, or anxiety. We have access to unique tools and resources that enable clients and their families to meet with success. Neutrality matters. As coaches, we enter the situation free from pre-existing bias and emotional exhaustion. Time and again, students and parents are more receptive to our suggestions and strategies than they are to working with their own family members.

Question 2

When should we start to work with AcademicAlly?

Accepted Answer

Early intervention leads to a decrease in stress and an increase in self-esteem and academic performance. When a student continues to struggle, it is important to get help in a timely manner. We work with students in grades first through high school as well as undergraduate and graduate programs.

Question 3

My child is very busy. How often will you meet with them?

Accepted Answer

Every student has different needs, and we work with each individual on a case-by-case basis. We typically begin with a family intake interview, then work with you and your student to create a timetable that fits your schedule.

Question 4

What's the difference between coaching and tutoring?

Accepted Answer

We are often asked to distinguish between academic coaching and tutoring, so here is an explanation. Your student is struggling to succeed in school. Should you hire an academic tutor or an academic coach? What’s the difference between the two? While both tutors and coaches can be teachers with plenty of experience, there are differences between the services they provide. Tutoring tends to focus on satisfying an immediate need, usually pertaining to specific subject content or an assignment. If your student is struggling to master content in a statistics course, a tutor would be a good fit. Tutors are not necessarily trained to help students who have learning disabilities, ADHD, or other diagnoses that impact their academic success. If your child has a formal diagnosis or is struggling to succeed in school, an academic coach may be better suited to help. Coaches work with students to establish foundational skills they can build on and apply throughout their academic careers and across multiple subject areas. They customize their approach to help students with organizational and time-management skills, self-advocacy and accountability, test-taking and study skills, among others. Coaching is comprehensive in nature and can include collaboration with teachers and parents to further support a student’s success. Coaches can also advise parents about other resources, including psychoeducational evaluations, IEP and 504 accommodations, mental health providers, and more.

Question 5

My student doesn’t have learning differences but still struggles. Can you help us?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Even if your student does not meet the criteria for a formal diagnosis, the fact that they are struggling is a good indication that outside assistance could be beneficial.

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