Academic Coaches
Academic coaches play an important and critical role in the success of the students associated with our ACE program. Coaches work individually with students, assess their strengths and needs, and develop a personalized plan of action. They refer students to appropriate campus resources and hold students accountable for utilizing them.
Academic Coaches do not need to be experts in every area, but should be aware of which offices handle which issues, and will be trained in utilizing various theoretical frameworks and practical strategies for building rapport with students, fostering a growth mindset, enhancing motivation, overcoming procrastination, fostering wellness, etc.
The success of the ACE Program relies on the efforts of New York Tech faculty and staff who participate in this student success initiative.
Interested in becoming an academic coach? All faculty and full-time exempt staff are welcome to apply.
Characteristics of Effective Academic Coaches
Passionate
Coaches are passionate about student success and are willing to grow professionally, while contributing to the New York Tech community.
Patient
Coaches understand that effective change doesn't occur overnight and recognize small improvements as major milestones.
Persistent
Coaches go above and beyond to connect with their students and find appropriate resources.
Approachable
Coaches acknowledge that the student-coach relationship directly impacts students' outcomes.
Motivating
Coaches will encourage and motivate students to complete program requirements and succeed academically.
Open-Minded
Coaches are willing to continuously learn about the resources available to students and encourage them when appropriate.
Coaching Commitment
- Coaches attend a one-time training session to understand the program’s goals, learn techniques and best practices.
- Attend ongoing staff training/ meetings called "Coach Conversations".
- Assist student with articulating their needs, developing academic skills, and identifying who in which office to speak with, as appropriate.
- Coaches meet with each assigned student a minimum of 4 times per semester. Sessions are typically 30-45 minutes long.
- An appointment summary note is required for each session and must be submitted in the Engage platform within 48 hours.
- Refer student to other support resources as needed.
Academic Coaches primarily focus on the following outcomes with their assigned students:
- Improving academic self-awareness
- Building confidence, resilience, and grit
- Establishing critical thinking skills and depth of learning
- Creating organization systems and strategies
- Developing time management systems and strategies
- Identifying and accessing resources
- Improving communication with peers and professionals
- Setting, reviewing, and adjusting goals
- Understanding program expectations