PALS: Peer Advising Learning & Success
The PALS program offers supportive peer education for the various academic goals that UM-Dearborn students are working toward. If you're a student striving for academic success, PALS will help you create specific goals and follow an individualized plan to achieve them. Connect with PALS to learn more about effective studying techniques, time management strategies, and other topics to integrate into your plan for success.
Meet Your PALS!
“Hey! My name is Ben and I am a Freshman majoring in mechanical engineering with an interest in education. I have no definitive plans after graduation, however I plan on getting a full-time job once I’ve received my Bachelors degree. When I’m not working or attending school, I love going on runs, playing soccer, playing guitar, and watching The Office. College is a full-time commitment but you shouldn’t feel alone. As both a freshman and a first-year PAL, I’m excited to begin working with students on campus to help them navigate toward success.”
"Hello! My name is Maya and I am a sophomore majoring in Health and Human Services. I am a Peer Academic Coach and I am here to help students meet their goals.
After I graduate, I plan on attending medical school. I like to play volleyball, try out new cooking recipes, and volunteer in my free time. I am very eager to work with my peers and to provide them with the numerous academic resources that our program has to offer. Reach out to me or another PAL whenever you feel lost, we are here to try to help you navigate through any situation successfully! "
All About PALS
PALS coach students from a peer perspective, as each PAL is a current student. Meeting with a PAL is an opportunity to hear from someone who is going through similar experiences while in college, but with the focus on you and your individual goals. PALS form a partnership with you to create a success plan and progress through that plan together, using specific tools, resources, and skill development techniques.
PALS also assist with some advising functions such as helping students fill out forms (change of major/minor, add/drop, etc.), navigate University systems, and complete registration requirements each semester.
If you are a freshman or first-year student at the university, you will need to schedule an appointment with your START advisor regardless, but you do NOT need to consult an advisor before meeting with a PAL.
Yes, PALS are able to meet with students to help navigate the registration process and explore DegreeWorks. More information about advising-related topics can be found in the crash course presentations on YouTube!
PALS can help you with study tips, test taking strategies, time management, registration, goal setting, note taking, online learning tips, instructor communication help, and more!
Feel free to reach out and we'd be happy to be in touch with you about any academically-related goal that you are thinking about!
All PALS appointments can be scheduled in the My UM-Dearborn Portal. Having trouble scheduling or aligning your availability for an appointment? Email us at umdearborn-pals@umich.edu or click on the contact form below.