Academic Coach

Quinnipiac University•Hamden, CT

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Quinnipiac University’s Learning Commons invites applications for the position of Academic Coach to join a collaborative, student-centered team dedicated to advancing student achievement, engagement, and persistence. Academic Coaches play a vital role in supporting the academic success and holistic development of first-year students by serving as trusted mentors, advocates, and partners throughout their transition to university life. Through individualized support, proactive outreach, and developmental coaching, Academic Coaches empower students to navigate academic expectations, strengthen learning strategies, build confidence, and overcome barriers to success. Coaches work closely with students to foster accountability, resilience, and effective decision-making while helping them connect with the wide range of resources and opportunities available across the University. Academic Coaches collaborate regularly with faculty, staff, and campus partners to support student progress and ensure students receive the guidance, encouragement, and interventions necessary to thrive academically and personally. Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong commitment to student development, inclusive excellence, and cultivating meaningful relationships that contribute to student persistence and long-term success.

Requirements

Master’s degree in Higher Education, Student Affairs, Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or related field is required
1-2 years of experience demonstrating the successful application of cognitive development theory within a collegiate academic context
Evidence of understanding the issues faced by contemporary college students as they impact their choices and overall academic success
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
A strong interest and knowledge of first-year student retention and success
Extremely strong communication skills to be able to develop meaningful relationships with a large number of first year students
A demonstrated ability of approaching complex issues with a problem-solving attitude while exercising independent judgment and ethical decision making
Experience applying theory to practice in supporting a diverse college student population including but not limited to racial/ethnic diversity, mental health, first-generation students, and students differently abled
Ability to work with and adapt to software and technology applications that are used in the support of university practices
Proven ability to collaborate effectively with individuals from varied backgrounds

Responsibilities

Provide direct, comprehensive developmental guidance to assigned students in the current first year cohort
Serve as an expert in the Quinnipiac University first year academic experience and be able to answer or to obtain answers to the questions students may have
Provide students with proactive guidance on acclimating to the University in an effort to facilitate their success at the University
Actively engage with students referred by faculty and staff via Quinnipiac’s early alert process
Assist students in developing learning strategies based on university-specific, evidence-based best practices
Help students to engage with resources in any area where they require deeper academic support
Guide students in cognitive and metacognitive practice and help them develop accountability for their decisions and prepare for success beyond first year
Support first-year student course registration and provide support for the General Education curriculum exploration and engagement
Document student interactions in support of first-year student retention
Lead up to two sections of QU 105
Participate in faculty development as directed
Other duties as determined by supervisor