Vet Peer Assisted Coaching
Vet Peer Assisted Coaching, often referred to as VetPAC, is a free service provided by the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM), in order to help students who are struggling academically. Designed to enhance student learning, VetPAC provides specific academic assistance for students by arranging small groups of 2-3 individuals or one-on-one tutoring, pairing a struggling student(s) with another CVM student who is currently excelling or has excelled in the course in the past. VetPAC is designed to improve CVM content comprehension as well as study and time management skills. Tutoring schedule and number of sessions are based on the coach and tutee availability.
When should I meet with a VetPAC Coach?
VetPAC is designed to support students who are experiencing demonstrated struggle in coursework, for example, having failed to reach a passing grade on an examination or finding themselves unable to successfully complete a remediation. VetPAC is not designed for those who wish to improve a passing grade (e.g. A- to an A).
If you are struggling with a particular course and/or study skills, follow our tiered approach for academic support:
- First, meet with your course coordinator(s). They are your content experts and may have recommendations for success and support. If you are having trouble getting in touch with those faculty members, please let us know.
- Second, find a peer study group or connect with a student group such as JumpStart ([email protected]). This is a registered student group that provides subject-based coaching for students in groups. In addition, you may reach out to CVM’s new Academic Advisor, Christina Owen ([email protected]) for support.
- If you are receiving a C or below and could use additional support, consider receiving additional coaching via a VetPAC coach.
Who are the Peer Coaches?
VetPAC Peer Coaches are your classmates! Students who have excelled academically are invited to participate in this program. They have undergone training sessions and have been provided with tips and resources to help them assist you.
What should I do if I am ready to meet with a coach?
Contact Christina Owen at [email protected] to request a VetPAC Peer Coach. In your email, be sure to include:
- The name of the course you are struggling with and what your course coordinator recommends you focus your coaching time on. Alternatively, list study habits you would like to improve on.
- Your class year. Efforts will be made to pair you with an upperclassperson. However, depending on coach availability, you may be paired with a classmate and/or placed in a small group that includes your classmates.
Christina will then match you up with a Peer Coach.
What should I do to prepare for my VetPAC session?
To prepare for your first VetPAC session, please ensure that you are up-to-date on class readings and assignments, and bring your materials with you to your session! In the past, coaching sessions have been the most beneficial for those who provide a list of questions or concerns to their coach prior to each session.