Morgan Academic Center Learning Services Program

Learning Services at the Morgan Academic Center utilizes a strengths-based approach and is designed to build student athlete academic independence and confidence. We strive to provide our students with high-quality academic instruction while supporting their individual behavioral and emotional needs. As a learning community, we collaborate to promote student success by helping students reach their goals within and beyond the university.

The Learning Specialist/Learning Specialist Assistants aid student athletes and counselors in identifying possible learning disabilities, coordinating appropriate testing, acting as liaisons with Student Disability Resources (SDR), and developing academic support plans based on individual strengths/needs. If a student athlete has a learning disability, ADHD, or other conditions that is impacting their performance, the learning specialist will be a valuable resource. The learning specialist works closely with the student athlete regarding accommodations, assistive technology, campus and community resources, and effective strategies to facilitate academic success. The learning specialist can also assist the student athlete in understanding applicable policies and procedures for individuals with disabilities while attending Penn State.

Morgan Academic Center Learning Services Staff

Learning Services Roles Overview

Learning Specialist

A Learning Specialist provides individualized academic support to student athletes through instruction focused on learning strategies, executive functioning, time management, and self-advocacy. They collaborate with academic advisors and campus resources to support students with diagnosed learning disabilities, mental health concerns, or other academic challenges, through structured learning plans and accommodations.

Learning Specialist Assistant (LSA)

The Learning Specialist Assistant supports Learning Specialists by working with a targeted caseload of student athletes who may benefit from additional structure and skill development. LSAs focus on reinforcing academic skills such as planning, organization, note-taking, and study strategies through consistent weekly sessions. They serve as a bridge between intensive learning specialist support and peer-based services (e.g., Tutoring).

Academic Support Assistant (ASA)

An Academic Support Assistant collaborates with athletic academic counselors and learning services staff to monitor student-athlete academic progress, scheduling, and eligibility. They help manage coursework, send reminders for key appointments, follow up on class engagement, and assist in ensuring communication across support teams. They also support a targeted caseload of student athletes who may benefit from additional structure and skill development.

Academic Coach

An Academic Coach works with student athletes on short- and long-term goal setting, motivation, and skill development. Coaches may assist with balancing academic and athletic responsibilities, creating study plans, and promoting personal accountability. Their work often centers on study habit development and creating sustainable academic behaviors aligned with the student’s goals.

Content Tutor

Tutors provide content-specific academic support to student athletes across a range of subjects. They assist with reviewing class material, preparing for exams, and enhancing comprehension through guided practice. Tutors are trained to foster independent learning, avoid dependency, and adhere to NCAA compliance and institutional academic integrity policies.

Study Huddles / Pods

Study Huddles (or Pods) are small-group academic sessions that create structured, peer-supported environments for student-athletes. Led by mentors, LSAs, or coaches, these groups promote routine study habits, collaborative learning, and accountability. They may be organized by academic year, academic risk level, or shared goals, and serve as a bridge between one-on-one support and independent study.