Academic Support

Learning Specialists are trained educators who partner with students to enhance their academic performance and assessment outcomes. They are well-versed in AWSOM’s curriculum and provide timely, personalized support from the first year through graduation. AWSOM’s Learning Specialists help students:

• Adapt study skills

• Refine test-taking strategies

• Shape professional behaviors to succeed in medical school

• Academic Counseling: Students meet individually or in small groups with Learning Specialists to develop academic skillsets and optimize learning outcomes. Learning Specialists use data such as exam reports, self-assessments, and learning inventories to tailor their guidance to individual student needs.

• Co-Curricular and Skill-Building Events: Learning Specialists hold events designed to teach students essential skills such as strategic reading, time management, study strategies, and effective exam prep.

  Additionally, Learning Specialists host “Power Hour” events, bringing students and faculty together for student-led Q&A sessions prior to each summative exam.

• USMLE Preparation: Starting in the first year, resource materials, education modules, practice tests, and facilitated small groups are offered to support the successful completion of Steps 1 and 2 of the United States Medical Licensing Examinations (USMLE).

  USMLE support includes focused review sessions, guidance for online resource use, and individualized direction for board exam readiness.

• Peer Tutoring: Starting in Fall 2026, AWSOM will introduce a peer tutoring program, connecting students with trained upper-year peers for collaborative learning and course specific advice.    Peer tutors will facilitate group sessions, offer targeted 1-1 tutoring, and share strategies for mastering challenging content.

For more information, contact the AWSOM Learning Specialists at learningspecialist@alwmed.org