Success Coach

High Potential Success Coach

Department:
High Potential Program

Position Summary

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 1. Student Success Coaching (80%)

• Serve as the assigned Success Coach for a caseload of first- to 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

Additional Information

• Exempt: Yes
• Student Supervision: Coordinates with 7 Peer Mentors, but does not directly supervise staff.
• Budget Responsibility: Assists in tracking and planning for assigned programs and workshops.

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