Meet the Academic Coaches

 

Dr. Lygie Hinkle; Senior Director, The Student Academic Hub

Hometown: small town in Minnesota

Education:
BA: Political Science & Dance (double major), Gustavus Adolphus College
MS: Educational Psychology, George Mason University
EdD: Higher Education Policy, Vanderbilt University

What’s a common myth about academic success that you’d like to bust?
Myth: Cramming works. Last-minute study marathons might get you through the test, but they produce very little, if any, long-term retention. Spacing your study sessions out takes less total time and works so much better!

 

Jessica Porras, Student Success Navigator

Hometown: San Bernardino, CA

Education:
BA in Politics, St. Mary’s College of California
MA in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, University of Maryland, College Park

What’s a common myth about academic success that you’d like to bust?
Myth: Reading and re-reading material is an effective study technique. Instead, find a way to engage with the material, like giving yourself a practice quiz.

 

Makeda Retta, Academic Coach

Hometown: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Education:
BA in Accounting, Marymount University
MBA Candidate with a concentration in Data Science

What’s a common myth about academic success that you’d like to bust?
Myth: Working under pressure and cramming is the best way to succeed.

Reality: Many of us procrastinate and wait until the last minute to study for an exam or complete an assignment. While cramming may seem effective when you get a good grade after a sleepless night, it’s not a sustainable or efficient way to learn. Long-term academic success comes from consistent effort and using study strategies that help you truly understand and retain information. Everyone learns differently, so it’s important to explore different methods and find what works best for you.

Ronke Aderonmu, Academic Coach

Education:
BA in Interdisciplinary Studies, University of California, Berkeley
MA candidate in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Marymount University

What’s a common myth about academic success that you’d like to bust?
Myth: Scheduling a large 4-hour block will help me get work done. Sometimes, having multiple short study bursts over multiple days actually helps you remember what you study better. Plus, shorter blocks might help reduce those feelings of overwhelm at getting started.