Academic Support Services

The Student Academic Success Program at the Whiddon College of Medicine is committed to supporting student achievement through academic counseling and professional development.

We do this by offering one-on-one sessions, small group training sessions, and other collaborative events throughout the year.

Quickly access and request academic support through the Learning Services Support Form.
 

 
Learning Support

• Assess academic progress and developing strategies for improvement
• Design specific study plans based on individual needs
• Develop specific, targeted study skills
• Improve test-taking skills & build test confidence
• Boost time management plans
• Make the most of our instructional technology
• Coordinate study sessions
   

 
Peer Academic Leadership (PAL) Program

2025–2026 Academic Year
 

Overview

The Peer Academic Leadership (PAL) Program supports motivated and academically successful M2–M4 students as they serve their peers through academic guidance, learning support, and the development of academic programming. PALs play a vital role in fostering a collaborative and inclusive learning environment within the College of Medicine.
 

Responsibilities

PALs are expected to:

• Provide one-on-one and group academic support to fellow medical students
• Assist with the planning and delivery of workshops, study groups, and peer-led review sessions
• Attend and participate in PAL professional development sessions focused on learning strategies, communication, and peer support
• Foster a respectful, inclusive learning environment that is mindful of individual and cultural differences
• Collaborate with academic staff and fellow PALs to share best practices
• Maintain professionalism in all roles and responsibilities
• Participate in additional activities that enhance the PAL program’s mission
   

Qualifications

To be eligible to serve as a PAL, applicants must:

• Be currently enrolled as an M1–M3 student in good academic standing
• Demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Show a passion for supporting peers and promoting academic success
• Preferably have experience in a teaching or peer tutoring setting (not required)
• Be committed to professional development and lifelong learning
• Be able to work independently and as part of a team
• Have performed at or above the mean in modules or clerkships in which they may serve

Academic standing will be verified by the Office of Student Affairs.
 

Policies

Selection Policy
Students interested in serving as PALs must apply in the spring semester prior to the academic year of service. Applications will be reviewed based on academic performance, availability, and program needs. The application deadline is May 15, 2025.

Training & Professional Development Policy
PALs are required to attend the annual PAL Orientation & Training and at least one PAL professional development session per semester.

Professionalism Policy
PALs are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism. Expectations include reliability, respect, confidentiality (FERPA compliance), and appropriate conduct. PALs are also expected to follow scheduling and documentation procedures as outlined during training. Unprofessional behavior may result in review and possible removal from the program.

Academic Pause Policy
To prioritize academic success, PALs who experience academic difficulty may be asked to temporarily pause their participation in the program to focus on their coursework.

Leave of Absence Policy
PALs who take a Leave of Absence (LOA) from the curriculum are not eligible to serve during their leave. They may be reconsidered upon return but are not guaranteed reinstatement. LOAs will not be granted for required PAL professional development sessions.

Dismissal Policy
PALs may be dismissed from the program for reasons including:

• Academic standing changes
• Professionalism concerns
• FERPA violations
• Repeated unavailability to support scheduled sessions
  PAL hours vary based on student need and PAL availability. Compensation is provided according to university policies and procedures.
   

For questions or to learn more about becoming a PAL, contact the Office of Academic Success. To be considered for the 2025–2026 PAL cohort, submit your application by May 15, 2025.

Apply Now
 

 
Contact Information

For more information on academic support services contact Angie O'Neal.

Angie O'Neal, M.Ed.
Director, Learning Support Services
Office of Academic Success
aoneal@southalabama.edu
Phone: 251-341-3927