If you’re a high school senior choosing a college, you’re probably thinking about majors, dorms, campus vibes and whether the food will be decent. But here’s something just as important (and way less talked about): academic support.
College is exciting—but it’s also a big jump. Classes move faster, expectations are higher and you’re suddenly managing everything on your own. The good news? Colleges that truly care about student success don’t expect you to figure it out alone.
Let’s break down what academic support actually looks like—and how to spot universities with strong academic support before you commit.
Academic Advising: Your Built-In Game Plan
Think of academic advising as having a personal guide for your college journey. A good academic advisor helps you:
- Choose classes that fit your goals
- Stay on track for graduation
- Explore majors (especially if you’re undecided)
- Navigate challenges before they become problems
At colleges that prioritize student success, advisors don’t just show up during registration. They check in, ask how classes are going and help you connect the dots between what you’re studying and where you want to go.
When you’re researching schools, ask: Will I have a dedicated advisor? How often do students meet with them? Will they know my name? The answers matter.
College Tutoring: Support When Classes Get Tough
Even strong students struggle sometimes—and that’s normal. College tutoring is one of the most valuable student success resources in college, especially during your first year.
Many colleges with great tutoring programs offer:
- Free or low-cost tutoring
- Drop-in study sessions
- One-on-one help for tough classes like math, science or writing
- Study skills coaching (yes, learning how to study is a thing)
Tutoring isn’t about “catching up when you fall behind.” It’s about staying confident, building skills and not letting one hard class derail your entire semester.
Student Success Resources Go Beyond the Classroom
Strong academic support doesn’t end with advising and tutoring. Universities with strong academic support often provide:
- Writing centers
- Academic coaching
- First-year transition programs
- Faculty who are accessible and actually know your name
These student success resources in college are designed to help you grow—not just academically, but personally. They send a clear message: You belong here, and we want you to succeed. You’re not alone!
A Quick Note on Northwest Nazarene University
At Northwest Nazarene University, academic support is baked into your experience. With personalized academic advising, accessible professors and student-focused tutoring, NNU is intentional about helping you thrive (not just survive) college. It’s part of our philosophy and shows up in how we will support you every step of the way, because We Do College Different.
The Bottom Line
As you choose a college, don’t just ask, “Can I get in?” Ask, “Will this college help me succeed once I’m there?”
The best colleges don’t expect perfection. They expect growth; and they build systems to help you achieve it. Look for schools that invest in academic advising, college tutoring and real student success resources. Your future self will thank you.
College is a big step. Make sure you choose a place that’s ready to walk with you the whole way.
