BGSU meets demand for individualized support for students with learning differences through nationally recognized FLY Program

The Falcon Learning Your Way – or FLY – Program provides one-on-one academic support

By Laren Kowalczyk ‘07

Bowling Green State University continues to be a national leader in developing innovative programs that drive student success, recognizing the value of creating an expansive and diverse support network that caters to the needs of all students.

Among the University’s highly regarded programs is the Falcon Learning Your Way (FLY) Program, which provides academic support to students living with ADHD, specific learning differences and executive function challenges through a unique and personalized approach.

BGSU is among roughly two dozen universities nationwide with a dedicated program to support students with learning differences, exemplifying the University’s commitment to student success and outcomes.

“BGSU is a leader among public universities in Ohio and nationwide for providing one-on-one support for students with learning differences,” said BGSU FLY Program Director Travis Brown. “High school counselors and transition specialists from across the country are connecting with us because they have students who are interested in BGSU for the FLY Program. We have a reputation nationally for providing students with the skills and resources they need to succeed in college and beyond.”

Established in 2016, the BGSU FLY Program has grown significantly during the past two years, increasing from 55 students in 2022 to 265 students for Fall 2024, underscoring the demand for individualized support at the university level.

One of the most unique facets of the program is that students meet with the same learning specialist once a week throughout the program, which Brown said provides a level of consistency that is integral to student success.

The learning specialists work with students on time management, organizational skills, learning strategies, self-advocacy and various other skills designed to help them become independent learners.

“The FLY Program centers around being able to provide truly personalized support, which is why our students meet with the same learning specialist from week to week,” he said. “The dedicated support our students receive and the relationships they build are pivotal to their success.”

For junior Zoe Naegele, the FLY program was a significant factor in attending BGSU.

“The FLY program was incredibly helpful in navigating the transition to college life,” she said. “Due to my learning disability, I take much longer to complete my work and must utilize all my free time efficiently to be successful. My learning specialist provided support, encouragement and helpful solutions to the challenges I faced.

“They always made sure I was on the correct path to achieve my goals.”

In addition to the weekly meetings with a learning specialist, students receive priority access to tutoring services for first and second-year classes, as well as math and writing. Another significant emphasis of the program is self-advocacy.

In high school, most students have someone to advocate for them. Once they’re in college, Brown said they’re expected to navigate those conversations and requests on their own. 

“Part of what the FLY program does is teach students how to advocate for themselves,” Brown said. “We do a lot of coaching, mentoring and guiding to make sure they understand the steps to take to receive accommodations for their learning differences.

“We’re really proud of our growth and success of the program and look forward to helping more BGSU students achieve their educational goals.”