Nighthawk Coach Talk

Ready to take your online learning to the next level? In Part 2, we build on the basics and dive into strategies for staying motivated, engaging with your courses, and pushing through challenges when things get tough. If you’re looking to stay consistent, avoid burnout, and finish strong, this episode gives you the tools to do it.

Online classes offer flexibility, but they also require a different kind of discipline. In Part 1 of this two-part series, we break down practical, easy-to-apply tips to help you stay organized, manage your time, and keep up with your coursework. Whether you’re new to online learning or looking to improve your habits, this episode will help you build a strong foundation for success.

Think you don’t have anything to put on a resume? Think again. In this episode, we break down what actually counts as experience, common mistakes to avoid, and how to start building a strong resume right now. Walk away with one simple step you can take this semester to boost your resume.

Ever wondered what actually happens in an academic coaching session? In this episode, we walk you through the entire process — from booking your appointment to what happens during the conversation and how coaches follow up afterward. We break down what to expect, how to prepare, and why coaching is designed to be student-led, supportive, and practical. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, trying to improve your habits, or just want to stay on track, coaching gives you a space to think, plan, and move forward. If you've been curious about scheduling a session, this episode takes away the mystery and shows you exactly how coaching can support your success.

Starting college brings excitement, pressure, and a lot of unspoken expectations. In this episode, Sarah and Hannah share six truths every first-year student should hear early on. From reminding you that you belong here, to understanding that grades don’t define you, they break down what really matters during your first year. They also talk about why asking for help is a strength, how small time-management habits make a big difference, why you don’t need everything figured out, and how college is the perfect time to explore your interests.Whether you're in your first semester or still finding your footing, this episode offers reassurance, perspective, and practical advice to help you move forward with confidence. You belong, you’re capable, and you don’t have to do college alone.

Does focusing feel hard? Are you procrastinating getting an assignment done? Do you know you need to lock in, but can’t seem to find the motivation?You’re not alone, and you’re not broken. Our brains aren’t built for hours of nonstop focus.In this episode, Sarah and Hannah break down the Pomodoro Method, a simple time management technique built around short, focused work sessions and intentional breaks. We talk about where Pomodoro came from, how it works, why it’s so effective for college students, and how to flex it to fit your brain.Whether you try a 25-minute timer, a 10-minute sprint, or a longer focus block, the goal isn’t perfection — it’s progress. We're cheering you on!

When students hear the phrase academic coaching, a lot of assumptions come with it. Some of those assumptions quietly keep students from support that could actually make a big difference.In this episode, Sarah and Hannah break down five of the most common myths about academic coaching and what coaching really looks like in practice. You’ll hear real talk about who coaching is for, what happens in a coaching session, and why coaching is less about having someone “fix” you and more about helping you grow.Whether you’re thriving, struggling, or somewhere in between, this episode is an invitation to rethink what support can look like and to remember that you don’t have to figure everything out on your own.

In this launch episode of Nighthawk Coach Talk, we share why we started this podcast and what students can expect. As academic coaches, we see a common pattern: students who are capable, motivated, and hardworking — but lacking structure and steady habits.This podcast exists to bring coaching conversations beyond appointments and into your everyday routine. Each episode will offer practical strategies, small habits that build confidence, and encouragement when things feel heavy.Small changes add up. Let’s build them together.Book an appointment with a coach here: go.ung.edu/success-hub