51ÈÈÃźÚÁÏ

51ÈÈÃźÚÁÏ will be closed Friday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day. All campuses will reopen at 8 a.m. on Monday, July 7.

Two students enjoying an on-campus Student Life event.

COMPASS: Coaching, Mentoring, Persistence and Student Success

Introducing COMPASS program graphic

The COMPASS program works with new, first-time-in-college students pursuing Associate of Arts degrees by providing them with academic coaching and mentoring to help them overcome non-academic barriers to success.

COACHING. An Academic Coach provides instruction, encouragement, and support for new students toward their academic goals. With an Academic Coach, applicants and new students can 

  • Discuss values and goals that influence decisions; 
  • Define an academic goal, such as declaring a major or transfer plan;
  • Find books and computers, improve academic skills;
  • Navigate financial and personal challenges to improve academic success. 

Academic Coaches contact new applicants to help with the enrollment process, and continue to support FTIC students toward completion of their first term and continuing their academic journey. Academic Coaches are part of Enrollment Services. 

MENTORING. A Mentor shares wisdom and guidance from personal and professional experiences. With a Mentor, students can 

  • Share struggles and triumphs; 
  • Discuss personal, professional, and cultural development; 
  • Seek advice or encouragement from the experience or reflection of the mentor; 
  • Enjoy a fluid, broad relationship with a role model. 

Mentors are part of Student Development and Academic Affairs. Mentoring activities began in selected SLS1122 courses in Fall 2023, and our Student Mentor Liaison, Jeffrey Gillis has joined the Student Development team to help facilitate future mentoring opportunities at 51ÈÈÃźÚÁÏ. 

PERSISTENCE. Persistence means staying the course when things get challenging. Academic Coaches and Mentors are here to help new students navigate some of the challenges of college life, and to celebrate student strengths in our shared learning community. Academic Coaches and Mentors will 

  • Help students identify their goals and how 51ÈÈÃźÚÁÏ fits in to those hopes; 
  • Support students with relationship and resources; 
  • Encourage students who apply to enroll and attend, completing their first term;
  • Motivate students to continue their studies, complete their coursework, and walk the stage at graduation;
  • Value the contribution that students make at 51ÈÈÃźÚÁÏ, providing welcoming and safe relationships where students can flourish. 

STUDENT SUCCESS. Success is celebrated when we persist and get to our finish line. Students bring their unique motivation and mindset to 51ÈÈÃźÚÁÏ. Academic Coaches and Mentors provide knowledge and resources, and bring relationships, connections, and accountability! Together, we will celebrate both the academic outcomes of students completing their programs of study AND relationships that matter, where we share a valued and meaningful learning community. 

Do you have questions about academic coaching or mentoring? We are here to help. Email COMPASS@DaytonaState.edu.

Daytona State graduate Nick McDonald shares his experience with academic coaching and mentoring.

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  • What is COMPASS?

    COMPASS stands for Coaching, Mentoring, Persistence, and Student Success, and is 51ÈÈÃźÚÁÏ’s proposed Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), which is designed to complement the amazing services already provided to our students. COMPASS is a proactive, personalized program that offers academic coaching and mentoring specifically designed for first-time in college students pursuing Associate of Arts (A.A.) degrees. Its primary objective is to guarantee your academic success by providing tailored support and guidance during your first year of college.

  • What does an academic coach do?

    An academic coach works with first-time in college (FTIC), A.A. degree seeking students to identify what YOU need from 51ÈÈÃźÚÁÏ to be successful and serve as your point of contact during your first year. They will discuss your goals, potential challenges you may encounter, and connect you to campus resources – we want to make sure you know that we have what you need to be successful in college. We know the first year of college can be overwhelming - we can help you navigate the process of advising, applying for financial aid, approaching difficult assignments or classes, accessing academic support, addressing issues outside of college that may impact your success, and anything else that comes up along the way. You can ask them anything and they will help you find the answer. They are the compass dedicated to helping you be successful here at Daytona State!  

  • Why would I need an academic coach?

    It is completely natural that your first experience of college can feel stressful and, sometimes, overwhelming. You are not alone and we’re here to help! Academic coaches work with you to navigate the college process and any challenges you may encounter; help you stay motivated and provide ongoing support and accountability throughout your first year – we want you to be confident and successful! 

  • How do students connect with an academic coach?

    Academic Coaches will contact first-year, A.A. degree seeking students via phone or email after they have submitted their admissions application. You’ll also likely hear about academic coaching from your professors. By making contact early, we can quickly determine how we can make your transition into college as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. And once you’re here, we can help with any issues that come up along the way. 

  • How do I sign up for academic coaching?

    If you are a first-time in college, Associate of Arts (AA) degree seeking student, an academic coach will contact you by phone or email soon after you apply to Daytona State.