The Academic Success Mentors (ASMs) support students' academic and personal successes. They can discuss a wide-range of personal and academic success topics (e.g., time management, stress/anxiety management, study/learning strategies, motivation strategies, and techniques to address procrastination) and connect students with appropriate campus resources and services. If a student has a course-specific content question beyond the ASM's knowledge, then they will connect the student with one of ACE's course-specific tutors and sessions. Students can use the ASM's appointment link to access both in-person and Zoom meeting options for Sun- Fri, between 10am and 8pm.
O: G051 WJB
P: 850-645-5485
E: jjerez@fsu.edu
JJ Jerez
Academic Success Mentor at the Academic Center for Excellence
JJ is a doctoral student in the Combined Counseling and School Psychology Ph.D. program at Florida State University. JJ earned his bachelor's degree in psychology from Florida State and his Masters and Education Specialist degree in Counseling in the Human Systems with a concentration in Career Counseling. His research interests include the intersectionality of career and mental health of first-generation college students. Outside of research, JJ enjoys eating at all the local hot spots, traveling when possible, playing video games, and spending time with his cat, Luna. At ACE, JJ supports students in their transition to college life and helps students in improving study skills, time management, and other topics to assist each student to work on succeeding in their academics. Hablo Espanól así que no dudes en venir a mí.
To schedule an appointment with JJ, click here.
O: G026 WJB
P: 850-645-5485
E: ljo24@fsu.edu
Lia O'Malley
Academic Success Mentor at the Acadmemic Center for Excellence
Lia earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Georgia and is currently pursuing both a Master’s and Educational Specialist degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Florida State University. Before joining FSU, she gained valuable research experience in several psychology labs under the guidance of the Director of the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences at UGA. Her research focused on the impact of work on individuals' personal lives, particularly their mental health. In her role as an ACE Academic Success Mentor, Lia offers support to students navigating their college journey, drawing on her background in psychology and counseling to provide comprehensive guidance. Her commitment extends beyond academics, as she is also passionate about enhancing students' mental health and well-being through effective study skills. Lia believes that mastering these skills not only boosts academic performance but also contributes to overall mental wellness, helping students manage stress and maintain a healthy balance between their studies and personal lives.
To schedule an appointment with Lia, click here.
O: G051 WJB
P: 850-645-5485
E: seortiz@fsu.edu
Selena Ortiz
P.R.E. Program Specialist
Acadmemic Center for Excellence
Selena joined the Academic Center for Excellence (ACE) in August of 2024. She currently serves as the Proactive Referral and Engagement (PRE) Program Specialist. In 2024, Selena earned her B.S. degree in Human Development & Family Sciences from Florida State University, and is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work degree. She has a history of working in student success with her time as a TEAM Leader and Upward Bound Summer Residential Counselor for the Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement (CARE) Program and as an Academic Success Mentor at FSU. In these roles, she proactively engages with students by connecting them to important campus resources, developing and facilitating workshops on college success strategies and self-regulation, and utilizing data analysis to enhance program outcomes. Selena is now a point of contact in advocacy for PRE and its early alert process and works with Dr. Tackett, the PRE Director to coordinate and train ACE’s Academic Success Mentors and Study Skills Tutors. She is dedicated to doing everything possible to support students in flourishing at FSU.
To schedule an appointment with Selena, click here.
Samantha Tackett, Ph.D.
P.R.E. Program Director
ACE Assistant Director
Dr. Samantha Tackett serves as faculty with the Academic Center for Excellence (ACE) in the Division of Undergraduate Studies at FSU. At ACE, Dr. Tackett directs the early alert process known as the Proactive Referral & Engagement (PRE) program, teaches academic recovery courses, and manages the Academic Success Mentors (ASMs) and Study Skills Tutors (SSTs) staff. In addition to consultations with faculty of Gateway and STEM courses, she counsels students who are experiencing academic difficulty and teaches undergraduate and graduate courses.
Faculty and Staff, use this link to request a presentation from Dr. Tackett for your students.
Students, use this link to schedule a meeting with Dr. Tackett.