Why College Skills Training Matters More Than Ever for Today’s Student

The jump from high school to college is exciting, overwhelming, and full of new expectations. Even bright, motivated students can struggle when the structure of high school disappears and they suddenly need to manage time, classes, communication, and independence on their own.

That’s where College Skills Training comes in.

I’m Lori Melnitsky, MA CCC-SLP, a speech-language pathologist and certified ADHD/executive-function coach specializing in helping college students build the real-world skills they need to thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally.

Who I Support

·       Graduating seniors preparing for their first semester

·       College students already struggling mid-year

·       Young adults stepping down from therapy or school-based support

·       Students with ADHD, executive functioning challenges, or language-based learning needs

What Is College Skills Training?

College Skills Training teaches students practical, everyday tools to manage the demands of college life—skills most campuses expect but don’t explicitly teach.

Skills Students Build

Time Management & Executive Functioning

·       Planning long-term assignments

·       Breaking down tasks

·       Creating weekly routines

·       Reducing procrastination

·       Managing overwhelm and perfectionism

Using Accommodations in Real College Settings

·       Emailing professors professionally

·       Navigating the disability office

·       Understanding real day-to-day accommodations

·       Building self-advocacy

ADHD-Related College Challenges

·       Staying organized

·       Initiating tasks

·       Regulating focus and energy

·       Building consistent routines

Language & Communication Skills

·       Writing more clearly

·       Expressing ideas

·       Speaking up with professors

·       Navigating group projects and social communication

Confidence, Independence & College Connections

·       Managing communication or speaking anxiety

·       Improving parent–student communication

·       Learning to use campus resources without embarrassment

Why This Support Matters

College is not just an academic shift — it’s a life shift. Students are expected to:

·       Manage their own time

·       Email professors professionally

·       Advocate for accommodations

·       Track deadlines without reminders

·       Form new social connections

·       Handle stress and transitions

When students struggle in one area, it often snowballs into others. College Skills Training helps them build real, functional skills that carry them through college and beyond.

Who Benefits Most

·       Students with ADHD or executive function challenges

·       Students who struggle with organization

·       Those with language-based learning differences

·       Students feeling overwhelmed in college settings

·       Students unsure of their major or career direction

·       Students who need help building confidence and communication skills

Let’s Support the Next Phase of Their Journey

If you know students or families who may need this kind of support—before they leave for college or anytime during their college experience—I would love to connect.

📧 Lori@allislandspeech.com

🌐 www.allislandspeech.com