Students looking for academic support on campus now have a new resource. Caden Jackson has joined Presbyterian College as the new Academic Success Coach, a role dedicated to helping students navigate academic challenges and develop the skills needed to thrive on campus.

Jackson brings experience as a University of South Carolina graduate and former undergraduate researcher. He has earned recognition for his academic contribution at psychology conferences. He has experience in tutoring, writing, and consulting.

Despite no longer being in the classroom, he remains deeply involved in research, reading, and learning. “I have a love for learning and would love to go back for my master’s eventually,” Jackson said. Jackson believes in Albert Einstein’s famous quote, “Once you stop learning, you start dying.” He wants to learn everything he can, especially if he can help students while doing it.

In a recent interview, Jackson explained that he uses his own student experience to help students. Jackson was a student not too long ago, allowing him to truly relate to students. His approach is hands-on and collaborative. Jackson explained he “likes to be neck deep in the work with students.” Rather than only directing students to resources, he prefers to work alongside them. He loves working off student feedback, especially when it comes to workshops. He loves it when students tell him what they would like to see on campus.

On reading day, Jackson and Karen Compton organized a very popular event in Thompson Library. The event included homemade cookies by Jackson, hot cocoa, coffee, and peer tutors. The event saw far greater turnout than previous study halls, showing Jackson’s immediate impact on Presbyterian College students. He explained that he is willing to do anything to get students involved, even if he needs to personally make food to make the events appealing.

Jackson’s office in Neville 217 serves as a resource hub for students with various academic backgrounds. He works with students one-on-one to improve study habits, strengthen time management skills, and help with accountability. His background in research prepares him to coach students on writing projects such as capstones.

Jackson encourages all students to take advantage of the Academic Success Office, writing center, and tutoring services. “We’re here to do the most we can to help students succeed academically,” he said.

Students can easily access Jackson through his open-door policy for his office, Neville 217. He would love to get to know as many students as possible. Stop by and visit!