There is no such thing as a typical day on the job for Terra Kneeland, MA, senior academic success coach for Logan University’s College of Health Sciences. Her responsibilities shift throughout the academic year as course registration opens and closes, but one thing remains constant: supporting students.
“I want students to feel they can be successful in their program and comfortable at Logan. We are always happy to help provide individualized attention to each student,” Terra said.
From creating degree plans and approving registrations to meeting with students one-on-one, Terra helps a variety of students navigate their academic journey at Logan. She supports students in the undergraduate, Master of Science in Sports Science & Rehabilitation and Master of Science in Strength and Conditioning degree programs, as well as students who are non-degree seekers.
“My favorite part about working at Logan is our amazing students. Some of our programs are virtual or hybrid, which can be difficult to form a connection with the University, so I love making students feel seen and heard as they work towards their degree.”
Terra attended Missouri State University (MSU), where she earned a bachelor’s degree in public relations with a minor in theatre before completing a master’s degree in communications. During her undergraduate studies, she worked as a student employee in the Annual Funds Department, which led to a graduate assistantship in the Alumni Department.
“My experience in MSU’s Alumni Department introduced me to a passion for student success,” Terra said. “It made me realize how much I loved working with students and helping them succeed.”
After earning her master’s degree in 2012, Terra spent nearly seven years as the senior transfer admissions counselor at Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla, MO. In 2018, she learned about an opening at Logan for an academic success coach.
“I worked with students before, but I didn’t follow them throughout their academic journey,” Terra explained. “I loved the idea of being able to work with Logan students from day one all the way through graduation.”
In the last seven years at Logan, Terra has supported countless students as they work toward their academic and professional goals. She aims to help everyone feel like they belong at Logan, whether it be by guiding students to different campus resources or creating an action plan together.
“I worked with an undergraduate student who lived in Hawaii. Her goal was to get into veterinary school after graduation and we were constantly emailing back and forth leading up to the application cycle,” Terra said. “When she was accepted into the veterinary program, it felt like a win for both of us.”
Terra believes success coaching looks different for every student.
“Success coaching is whatever the student needs it to be,” Terra said. “It might be proactively reaching out with tips, tricks and university resources, or simply being an ear for students to discuss their future plans.”
She encourages students to be forthcoming with their questions about university life and academics, as well as with their achievements.
“Let us know your wins. We are always here to help when you are struggling, but we are also here to hear your successes and celebrate with you. These moments make the best memories.”
If you’re currently enrolled in Logan’s College of Health Sciences programs, Terra encourages you to reach out by phone or email to learn how the Academic Success team can support you throughout your academic career.