What is an LSA?

 
Learning Skills Advisors (LSAs) are current CUA graduate students in a Psychology or Social Work masters program. LSAs work 1-on-1 with students to improve executive functioning skills — such as time management and organization — so the student can succeed both inside and outside of the classroom. 

LSAs are not counselors, but they do use their skills as masters students in psychology and social work to create a comfortable environment and provide guidance in several areas of the university experience.

Students that can work with an LSA

  • Incoming Freshman, if determined at their DSS interactive process meeting
  • At-Risk Students
  • Opt-In Students who self-identify needing support

 

Overall Goals

  • Ensure that each student acquires the executive fucntioning skills necessary for transition into higher education
  • Help the student integrate into the campus community and culture
  • Ensure the student utilizes accommodations and supports available through DSS and CUA

 

Topics Covered

  • Time management 
    • How to block, break down, and organize time for studies and social engagements
  • Organization 
    • Finding what method(s) of organization work best for you
  • Writing Papers 
    • Understanding the assignment
    • Preparing, organizing, drafting and editing
    • Managing time and breaking a big project down into smaller tasks
  • Study Skills and Strategies 
    • How to study for:
      • Math vs. Philosophy
      • Oral Exams vs. Multiple Choice Tests
      • Independent Study vs. Group Study


  • Stress Management 
    • How to break down the requirements and responsibilities into smaller, achievable portions
  • Working with Professors 
    • Talking to professors and TAs about accommodations, test results, assignment clarifications, etc.
  • Accessing Other Campus Resources 
    • Utilizing the writing center, tutoring, math center, counseling center
  • Understanding and Implementing Accommodations
  • College 101  
    • Reading important emails and campus communication 
    • Organizing emails and Google Drive 
    • Understanding a syllabus 
    • Meeting Campus Deadlines (Housing, Advising, Course Registration)

 

 

 

 

Updated August 2025