Start the year strong with Academic Success
The office’s programs offer writing coaches, peer tutors and academic support to help Tar Heels get organized and avoid stress.
The beginning of the academic year is an exciting time for Tar Heels, with classes, student organizations and campus events back in full swing. But the first few weeks can also come with stressors, including new class schedules, homework and the first assignments of the semester.
For writing, tutoring, time management and more, Academic Success offers help through its Writing Center, Learning Center, Carolina Firsts, HeelGuides, Summer Bridge and Transfer Students units.
Part of the Office of Undergraduate Education in the UNC College of Arts and Sciences, Academic Success is currently located in the Student Academic Services Building North. In spring 2027, Academic Success will move to the top floor of the newly renovated Undergraduate Library.
Kim Abels, associate dean of academic success, shares how to make the most of the center’s resources and kick-start a great year at Carolina.
What makes the beginning of the semester an ideal time to connect with Academic Success support?
Getting organized early can make for a much easier semester ahead. If you’re feeling stressed about the transition from high school to college or are returning to Carolina and are ready to hit the ground running, making an appointment with an academic coach, writing coach or peer tutor soon is a great idea.
Students are also welcome to drop by SASB North to grab one of our semester-at-a-glance posters, which is a terrific tool for planning.
What is a common challenge at the start of the academic year, and how can students tackle it?
Time management is a top reason students visit us and use our programs, and September can be a great time to revisit that skill as you approach a new class schedule.
Tar Heels don’t need to have a particular subject they want help with in order to make an appointment with us. An academic coach would be happy to meet with any student who simply wants to make the most of their fall semester.
Is there a resource at the center that you would consider a “hidden gem”?
One resource is our workshops, which cover smart study skills, writing application essays, reading effectively and more. Students can register for those on Heel Life, and many qualify for Campus Life Experience credits. Students might also want to check out posts written by our student staff on our “How I Write and Learn” blog. Reading through some posts is a great way to get tips and perspectives from fellow students on navigating academics at Carolina.
Tell us about the Block Party event on Sept. 24.
The Block Party is a great way to learn about all the resources we offer. Students who join us in the SASB courtyard between 4 and 6 p.m. can grab free food, complete a personalized semester planner with an academic coach and get to know some of our fantastic peer mentors and staff. It’s a fun way to celebrate the start of the year with other Tar Heels.
