Peer Academic Supports for Success: Pilot Randomized Controlled
Feasibility Trial
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Mental health conditions are prevalent among
university students, putting them at elevated risk for dropout.
Universities offer an array of peer programs, and students often share
their concerns with peers before professionals. A well-specified peer
intervention to help sustain academic persistence that colleges can
directly offer their undergraduates with mental health conditions should
benefit this population. The Peer Academic Supports for Success coaching
model was developed to address this need. OBJECTIVE: This
study’s goal was to conduct a feasibility study of the Peer Academic
Supports for Success model and feasibility of randomized controlled
trial research methods. METHODS: Seventy-two undergraduate
students with academically impairing mental health conditions were
randomized to receive Peer Academic Supports for Success versus an
active control condition. Survey data were collected at baseline and at
the end of the next two semesters. Official transcripts were obtained.
Intervention implementation data were assessed through coach and
participant report. RESULTS: Peer Academic Supports for Success
was delivered with fidelity, successfully attracted and retained
students, and was safe. Randomized controlled trial methods proved
feasible. Findings revealed significant treatment effects on several of
the targeted proximal outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The findings
suggest Peer Academic Supports for Success is a promising
university-based intervention to support young adult students with
mental health conditions and should be tested in a robust clinical
trial.