;)
by: Rhona Free, Ph.D.
President
Angela Duckworth, a professor of Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania, wrote a Guest Essay in the New York Times on August 28, 2026 entitled, “I Study Successful People. They Have One Habit in Common.” She states: “Without exception, every high performer I’ve studied credits a host of supporters for their success. Research has found that a willingness to ask for help is crucial to achievement.” Further, Duckworth points out, “College students who proactively seek assistance from others typically outperform those who avoid doing so.”
Research shows that academic performance, measured by grades, improves when students seek help from faculty, tutors, or campus academic centers by asking for just enough hints or guidance to solve a problem themselves. At USJ, students are encouraged to use the wide range of resources and support services that are provided to help them with their coursework. Parents can help by reminding students about these services. While the Family Education Right to Privacy Act (FERPA) will affect how much information USJ staff and faculty can share with anyone other than the student, parents can contact the offices below to get general information that they can pass on.