On-TRAC Team Member of the Quarter

Ashley Sundman, Peer Coach, Orlando, Florida
Ashley is currently a student at the University of Central Florida pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a Music Minor. Her interest in psychology and learning began as a result of a career research paper assigned in her tenth grade English course. She researched the field of School Psychology and it became her passion to pursue. After she graduates from University of Central Florida, Ashley plans to continue her education and obtain her Doctoral degree in School Psychology. She has been working with Learning Strategies for over a year doing remedial work and tutoring students of all ages. With On-TRAC, she has been utilizing those same skills in an innovative way to help college students become more successful.

An Interview with Ashley Sundman

What do you like most about the On-TRAC system?

A.S.: The cooperation between three minds is wonderful. The team approach gives different ways to tackle obstacles and I think between all three views, one that works best for the student can be found.

What do you consider the most important aspect of what you do as a Peer Coach?

A.S.: It’s hard to decide, but I think there is a lot of value in being able to let students know that I have been there and that they can conquer any obstacles in front of them. College requires a higher level of skills, but anyone can master these with the right mindset and help.

What do you do as a Peer Coach?

A.S.: As a peer coach, I act as an informed guide of the university for the student. Getting things done around a large campus takes a lot of knowledge of where to go and who to talk to. Also, through my experience, I have picked up various things that have worked for me and other students on how to get organized and decide on a certain direction in life.

How do you think the two level (Lead Coach and Peer Coach) coaching system helps students?

A.S.: The Lead Coach is so essential for all of the testing and finding out the strengths of an individual. They also help to handle any personal issues that a student might be facing that are harder to discuss with a peer. The Peer Coach is great because students can build a great partnership with someone who has been in the same situation. Plus, the Peer Coach, through experience, has gained many unlisted tips and tricks to be able to get things done around the university.

Other than being a Peer Coach, what else do you do?

A.S.: I have loved playing music since I began the clarinet in middle school. That is my favorite way to unwind. My other work has brought me to do tutoring and remedial work with younger children and help them accomplish their academic goals. For fun, I generally go out swing dancing or play dodgeball with friends.