Visiting Transition Coach - Academic Center for Excellence

Visiting Transition Coach

The Visiting Transition Coach supports the Flames Leadership Network (FLN), a nationally recognized first-year student success program housed within the Academic Center for Excellence. The coach provides proactive, individualized coaching to an assigned cohort of approximately 125 enrolled first-year students, supporting their academic success, socio-emotional wellbeing, and sense of belonging e responsibilities include transition coaching, academic plan development, workshop facilitation, program outreach and engagement, and referrals to university support services and campus partners.

The coach also contributes to program-level initiatives and plays an active role in the broader operation and continuous improvement of the FLN program. Particular emphasis is placed on supporting first-generation and Pell-eligible students in successfully navigating the academic, social, and institutional landscapes of university life as a foundation for long-term retention and degree completion.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide individualized transition coaching and academic support to an assigned cohort of first-year students, including development of academic plans, goal setting, referrals to campus resources and support services, and attention to students' socio-emotional wellbeing and sense of belonging.
• Conduct proactive outreach and follow-up with students to monitor academic progress, address barriers to persistence, and respond to academic and attendance concerns.
• Support pre-enrollment and transition activities for incoming students, including communication regarding placement testing, financial aid, housing, orientation, and academic enrichment opportunities.
• During the summer, serve as coach and point of contact for students enrolled in UIC summer programs, including Summer College and Summer Edge, monitoring their academic progress and overall wellbeing. Assist with presentations and information sessions at UIC Orientation events to support incoming first-time and transfer students.
• Plan and facilitate workshops, presentations, and student engagement activities related to academic success, transition, financial literacy, career exploration, and student belonging.
• Collaborate with academic advisors, faculty, student affairs professionals, and campus partners to coordinate support for assigned students and promote student success initiatives.
• Maintain accurate student records, coaching notes, and program documentation in compliance with FERPA and university policies. Assist with outcome tracking, data collection, assessment activities, and program reporting.
• Lead a designated program coordination area and associated operational responsibilities, which may include communications, student engagement programming, peer coaching support, or other assigned program functions.
• Represent the office at campus events, orientation programs, local high schools, and community-based outreach activities as needed.
• Participate in evening and weekend programs and activities as required.
• Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Minimum of two years of experience in higher education, student services, social services, advising, coaching, or a related field.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple responsibilities and work effectively both independently and collaboratively.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and written/oral communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and student information or case management systems.
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends and travel locally as needed.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates.