Academic Coaching
Learn smarter. Feel supported.
Academic Coaching is a free service through Tutoring Services that helps you build the habits and strategies that make college work for you. Meet individually with a trained Academic Coach to create a plan, practice new skills, and stay on track.
Common focus areas
- Time management and weekly planning
- Studying actively and remembering what you learn
- Note-taking and reading strategies
- Motivation, focus, and managing stress
- Communicating with instructors and self-advocacy
- Goal setting and follow-through
Who can use Academic Coaching
All Yavapai College students. No referral required. No cost.
Where to meet
Prescott Campus or online via Zoom.
Mike Byrnes brings extensive experience in higher education and a strong commitment to student success. He combines his passion for education with his knowledge of campus resources to provide personalized coaching, study strategies, and support that help students stay organized, focused, and confident in their learning.
You must use your YC Zoom log in. If you need help logging in, please contact tutoring-prescott@yc.edu
What to expect
Session length
- A first visit usually lasts 25 to 30 minutes. This is a chance to meet your Academic Coach, talk about your goals, and begin building a plan.
- You can then also schedule tailored mini-workshops that last 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- If you prefer, you can skip the meet-and-greet and dive right into a 60-minute workshop on a specific skill.
Workshop topics include
- Time Management
- Study Smarter, Not Harder: Learning Strategies
- Finding Your Why
- Communicating in College: From emails to in-person interactions
What will happen in a session
- You share your goals, classes, and current challenges.
- Your coach helps you choose one or two priorities.
- Together you build a simple plan with tools you can use.
- You leave with clear next steps and a way to check progress.
What to bring
- Your syllabus or Canvas to view deadlines
- Your weekly schedule, even a rough draft
- A current assignment or study topics for a first visit.
How Academic Coaching is different
Coaching vs. Tutoring
Tutoring helps with course content. Academic Coaching helps with how you learn, plan, and study across all courses.
Coaching vs. Academic Advising
Advising focuses on degree plans and registration. Coaching focuses on habits, strategies, and day-to-day success in your classes.
Coaching vs. Counseling
Counseling supports mental health and personal concerns. Coaching focuses on academic skills and routines. Your coach can refer you to campus partners when needed.