New Name, Same Services Provided by Student Academic & Accessibility Resources

Academic coaching, peer tutoring, writing consultations, and disability support services are vital resources that Arcadia students have come to know and rely on.

Beginning this fall, students will receive those resources-and more-from Student Academic & Accessibility Resources (StAAR). Formerly the Office of Academic Development, StAAR brings these areas together in one coordinated office.

"Most people on campus, especially students, did not realize that all of these services were part of one office," explained Jennifer Smull, director of Student Academic & Accessibility Resources. "Instead, community members would typically refer to the Learning Resource Network, or the LRN, as the collective term for the office, our location in Knight Hall, and/or peer tutoring. StAAR clearly conveys who we are and what we do."

Here's a refresher on what StAAR offers:

Academic Coaching: Students who are referred to an Academic Coach will receive one-on-one support from professional or graduate student staff to continue developing the skills essential for academic success, including time management, organization, study strategies, goal setting, executive functioning, and more.

Location: Knight Hall and online.

Peer Tutoring: Students can receive support from trained peer tutors who can help students understand course content, strengthen problem-solving skills, prepare for exams, develop effective study habits, build confidence in challenging subjects, and more.

Location: Landman Library, Knight Hall, and online.

Writing Center: Writers of any level can receive personalized support for essays, research papers, lab reports, presentations, scholarship and application essays, and more.

Location: Landman Library and online.

Disability Support Services: Students with disabilities can request reasonable accommodations to ensure that they have equal access to all University programs and services.

Location: Knight Hall and online.

"Every student comes to Arcadia with their own unique educational background and experiences," Smull said. "StAAR provides a supportive space for students to learn new skills, strengthen existing ones, and discover strategies that help build confidence and independence."

StAAR can be reached at [email protected]. For disability accommodations, students should email [email protected] or call 215-572-4686.