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
2026–2027 Academic Year
PAL Program At-a-Glance
Who can apply: M1–M3 students in good academic standing
Role: Provide peer academic support and assist with learning programs
Training required: PAL Orientation & Training + one professional development session each semester
Application deadline: May 15, 2026
Questions? Contact Angie O’Neal (aoneal@southalabama.edu)
Overview
The Peer Academic Leadership (PAL) Program engages motivated and academically successful M2–M4 students in supporting their peers through academic guidance, learning support, and peer-led programming. PALs promote effective learning strategies and contribute to a collaborative, respectful learning environment within the College of Medicine.
Who Should Apply?
Motivated M1–M3 students in good academic standing who are interested in supporting peers, strengthening learning strategies, and contributing to a collaborative academic community.
Applicants must also have performed at or above the class mean in the modules or clerkships they support.
PAL Responsibilities
PALs:
- Provide individual and group academic support to fellow medical students
- Assist with and facilitate workshops, study groups, and peer-led review sessions
- Participate in PAL orientation, training, and professional development sessions
- Foster a respectful and inclusive learning environment
- Collaborate with fellow PALs and academic support staff to strengthen academic programming
- Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and respect for student confidentiality (FERPA compliance)
- Follow program procedures for scheduling, communication, and session documentation
Program Expectations
Training and Professional Development
PALs must attend the annual PAL Orientation & Training and participate in at least
one professional development session each semester.
Professionalism
PALs are expected to demonstrate reliability, respect, and professionalism in all
interactions with students, faculty, and staff. This includes maintaining confidentiality
(FERPA compliance), following program procedures, and communicating effectively with
students and staff. Professionalism concerns may result in review and possible removal
from the program.
Academic Standing
PALs must remain in good academic standing. Students experiencing academic difficulty
may be asked to pause participation to focus on their coursework.
Leave of Absence
Students on a Leave of Absence from the curriculum are not eligible to serve as PALs
during that period. Participation may be reconsidered upon return but is not guaranteed.
Participation and Compensation
PAL hours vary based on student need and PAL availability. Compensation is provided
according to university policies and procedures.
Apply
Students interested in serving as PALs for the 2026–2027 academic year must submit an application by May 15, 2026. Applications are reviewed based on academic performance, availability, and program needs.
Questions
For more information about the PAL Program or the application process, please contact Angie O’Neal (aoneal@southalabama.edu).
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