"High Potential Success Coach"

The High Potential (HP) Success Coach serves as a key member of the TRIO Student Support Services team, a federally funded program dedicated to the academic success of first-generation, low-income, and/or students with disabilities at Saint Mary's College of California. Reporting to the Director of the High Potential Program, the Success Coach provides individualized, holistic, and culturally responsive support throughout a student's undergraduate experience. Through strengths-based coaching, tailored interventions, and proactive outreach, the Success Coach works to increase student persistence, academic performance, and graduation outcomes for TRIO/HP participants.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Student Success Coaching (80%): Serve as the assigned Success Coach for a caseload of first-third year TRIO/HP students. Provide proactive, personalized, and culturally aware coaching that supports students' academic, personal, and professional development. Develop individualized success plans and support students in setting and achieving realistic academic and life goals. Monitor academic performance and engagement through regular check-ins, college systems, and data tracking. Maintain confidential student records, referrals, and notes in accordance with grant and institutional guidelines. Refer students to relevant campus and community resources and coordinate wraparound support. Utilize strengths-based, trauma-informed, and equity-centered practices in all student interactions.
• Student Engagement & Program Support (10%): Collaborate with HP staff and Peer Mentors to plan and implement year-round programming, including the SAILS summer bridge program. Conduct workshops on student success topics such as time management, study skills, wellness, and leadership. Support students' sense of belonging through community-building initiatives, family engagement, and culturally affirming events. Assist with budget monitoring and planning for assigned initiatives and programming efforts. Provide a consistent, accessible presence in the HP office to foster trust and visibility.
• Advocacy and Institutional Outreach (5%): Champion the needs and experiences of first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students through campus collaboration and committee work. Partner with academic departments, Student Life, and campus programs to support coordinated care and academic success. Support student involvement in college-wide activities, graduation celebrations, and leadership development opportunities.
• Professional Development (5%): Stay informed on trends and best practices in student coaching, success strategies, equity in education, and TRIO programming. Participate in trainings, conferences, and professional associations to enhance effectiveness and impact.
• Other Duties as Assigned

Qualifications

• Education: Required: Master's degree in counseling, psychology, higher education, social work, or a related human services field. Preferred: Bilingual (Spanish); additional coursework or training in educational equity, academic advising, or college student development.
• Experience: Required: 2-3 years of experience in higher education or non-profit student support. Preferred: At least 1-3 years working with first-generation, low-income, and/or students with disabilities.
• Skills & Abilities: Demonstrated cultural competence and experience working with diverse populations. Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills. Strong organizational, analytical, and data tracking skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team-based, student-centered environment. High emotional intelligence and the ability to build trusting relationships with students and stakeholders.
• Working Conditions & Expectations: Occasional evening and weekend work required. May require limited travel or participation in off-campus events. Must be able to sit and use a computer for extended periods. Expected to manage confidential student information with discretion and care.