Study CATS is a university-wide, academic support program designed to help students improve their academic performance through personalized coaching, academic instruction, and connection to campus resources. The program includes a 1-credit course (GU-1200) that covers topics such as time management, organizational skills, effective study strategies, communication and self-advocacy, cultivating a growth mindset, and mindfulness/stress relief practices. Study CATS also familiarizes and connect students with on campus resources and support systems. In addition to the course, students work directly with their Student Success Coach to set achievable goals, identify challenges, and develop the tools and confidence to progress toward their degree. 

Study CATS is not just about improving student GPAs; it is also about equipping students with lifelong skills that will benefit far beyond the walls of the classroom. We believe in every student’s potential, and we’re here to help support them at every step of the way. 

Study CATS is not here to create more work for students but to help balance and manage the workload they already have. Course assignments are geared toward helping strengthen students’ organizational skills, study habits, and time management skills. By investing the time upfront to build positive habits, students enrolled in Study CATS will feel less overwhelmed in the long run. 

Each student will be assigned a Success Coach who will instruct their Study CATS course section and will be available for mentoring and academic support outside of class time. Success Coaches are here for all students' needs, and we encourage students to reach out to their Success Coaches at any time. Success Coaches are currently listed as students’ “Secondary Advisor” their Navigate page. Success Coaches can be contacted through their individual emails or through the Study CATS program email, studycats@uvm.edu. Students can find out who their assigned Success Coach is by referring to their course schedule.

Study CATS is an S/U course and is not weighted in a student’s GPA. However, the skills, confidence, and connections that students build through the Study CATS program will help students become more effective learners and increase their academic success. If students attend regularly and put in the effort, they are sure to see results. Past students have said that they felt more organized, studied more effectively, and were better equipped to combat procrastination habits after participating in Study CATS. 

Additionally, statistics from Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 show that students enrolled within the Study Cats program significantly increased their use of campus resources. Students who take advantage of campus resources and support are proven more likely to succeed in their classes and excel in their academic goals. 

Even strong students can have a tough semester. Study CATS isn't just about learning how to study; it’s about learning how to make small, smart changes in all areas of life that can help students achieve their goals in and out of the classroom. Success Coaches can help students see patterns and build momentum for long term academic success.     

“I thought everyone who came in was super helpful, and I got useful information from each session.”

“I think this class was well formed for its purpose.”

“I really liked the career readiness presentation. I didn’t have much hope for an internship with my GPA, but I feel much more confident in my skills and feel I have a shot now.”

“Study skills was my favorite presentation. It made me reflect on what works best for me when completing assignments, and what new tactics I can try.”