“There was this culture of excellence both athletically
and academically, and it made you want to succeed
in both. A very high standard was set. (Competing at
Nebraska) was just an excellent, all-around, fantastic
experience, something I will never forget. I’m just so
grateful that I had the opportunity to be a Husker. It was
by far the most thrilling and incredible experience of my
life.”
Fran ten Bensel, Three-Time Cross Country All-American
The athletic academic unit, located in the Dick and Peg Herman Family Student Life Complex,
provides personal and academic support to ensure that student-athletes will get the most out of
their years as Huskers. Featuring one of the most innovative and comprehensive academic support
systems in the country, Nebraska is dedicated to helping its student-athletes become outstanding
leaders in their chosen fields. The academic support team is composed of 14 full-time staff
members and is certified by the National Association of Academic Advisors for Athletics (N4A).
ACADEMIC COUNSELING
Seven academic counselors, three learning specialists and two assistant academic counselors are
in place to monitor daily academic progress, receive consistent course feedback, assist with the
advising/registration process and monitor continuing eligibility and progress toward graduation.
TUTORIAL SUPPORT
A tremendous resource for all academic abilities, unlimited tutorial support from approximately
120 tutors on staff is available from day one up to college graduation in all subject areas. The tutorial
program is certified as a model tutoring program by the College Reading and Learning Association.
STUDY HALL
Nebraska’s study hall program is housed in the D.J. Sokol Enrichment Center within the Student
Life Complex. Student-athletes attend a supervised, flex-time study hall that features day, evening
and weekend hours. Student-athletes are required to complete a specific number of study hours
each week as determined by their academic counselor and/or coach. Additional performancebased or tutor-based study hall also may be determined by the academic counselor.
MENTORING
Academic support staff serve as mentors to all incoming student-athletes and a select group
of returning student-athletes. Student-athletes meet with their mentor weekly to develop time
management skills, gather and report academic progress information, and discuss academic
success strategies.
EDUCATIONAL ASSESSMENTS
Assessments are administered upon the request of the student-athlete, academic counselor,
or coach. Learning specialists are available to administer and score informal assessments, which
include a reading comprehension and a writing assessment. When more in-depth assessments
are necessary, referrals are made to a consulting psychologist who conducts the assessments.
If it is determined a student-athlete has a learning disability or another medical condition that
impedes the student from reaching their academic potential, appropriate accommodations are
implemented by the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities.
STUDENT-ATHLETE ORIENTATION
Each new student-athlete attends an orientation at the beginning of their academic career.
Student-athletes are introduced to staff, faculty, administrators, and a variety of resources that help
facilitate the transition into college while enhancing awareness of support services in the Athletic
Department and across campus.
PERSONAL COUNSELING
Student-athletes will find a supportive and caring environment at Nebraska. Transitional issues,
stress management, time management, academic focus and problem resolution are all addressed
in a proactive manner throughout the year. If necessary, counseling referrals are also made to
designated practitioners.
COMPUTER RESOURCES
The Herman Student Life Complex has two computer labs for student-athlet