Position Summary:

The Academic Coach is a part of the Center for Student Wellbeing (CSW) in the Student Affairs division at Vanderbilt. The work of Academic Coach includes individual academic coaching for students to help them achieve their personal and academic goals as well as workshops and programming pertaining to academic success. The Academic Coach also assists with and provides programming, coaching, and workshops in other realms of wellbeing, such as mindfulness, meditation, and healthy living. Reporting to the Assistant Director for Academic Wellbeing, the Academic Coach works in close and frequent partnership and collaboration with faculty, Student Affairs staff and administration. This is a full-time, onsite position.

 

About the Work Unit:

The Student Care Network (SCN) is comprised of The Center for Student Wellbeing, Student Care Coordination, the University Counseling Center, and the Student Health Center. The SCN is a holistic network of services and resources pertaining to health and wellness available to all Vanderbilt University students who have paid the Student Health Fee. As such, staff within the offices comprising the SCN work collaboratively to create integrated processes, referrals, and treatment plans to better serve the entire student. 

The Center for Student Wellbeing at Vanderbilt University works to create a culture that supports the personal development and academic success of students using an integrative, holistic framework. Through inclusive and collaborative programming, support services, and campus initiatives, the Center cultivates engagement in lifelong wellbeing practices that enhance students’ ability to thrive within the Vanderbilt community and beyond.

 

About Student Affairs 

Student Affairs serves a central role in student learning and development at Vanderbilt, advancing the University’s mission of teaching, research, and service. Student Affairs at Vanderbilt cultivates vibrant, inclusive communities that foster a student’s sense of belonging and wellbeing through collaborative partnerships, transformative learning experiences, and an accessible and holistic network of resources. We value connection, belonging, compassion, development, and innovation. Our staff are committed to continued growth in knowledge, awareness, skills, and experience engaging with these priorities in a higher education environment.

 

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

Individual Coaching 

Provide one-on-one coaching, using a motivational interviewing framework, to help students develop, implement, and maintain skills to contribute to their personal and academic success. Provide one-on-one and group coaching to students referred by academic deans or other campus partners, needing support due to learning disabilities, ADHD, or low academic performance. Connect students with a higher level of care, when necessary.

Programming and Events

Provide workshops on topics such as time management, academic skills, ADHD, and imposter syndrome. Provide drop-in study hall hours for on-demand academic support. Table at informational fairs & events to promote the Center for Student Wellbeing. Assist with and implement programs and workshops on general wellbeing topics, such as meditation, mindfulness, and healthy living.

Support for Neurodiverse Learners and Students with Disabilities

Provide individual coaching and programming for neurodiverse learners and students with disabilities. Support accessibility efforts in the Center for Student Wellbeing by providing consultations and training for staff members.

Other Responsibilities

Act as a resource and liaison to members of the University community on matters pertaining to academic success. Coordinate with numerous campus partners, particularly the Writing Studio, Tutoring, Office of Student Accountability, Community Standards, and Academic Integrity, Housing and Residential Experience, the University Counseling Center, and Student Care Coordination.  Keep abreast of trends in student wellness, especially pertaining to academic success. Engage in professional development, including presentations at pertinent conferences and workshops. Assume other duties, as assigned by the Director.

Institutional, Divisional, and Department Administration

Contribute to the broader mission and objectives of Student Affairs and the University by serving on divisional and institutional committees, task forces, and working groups. Actively participate in key divisional initiatives and events, including Move-In Day and all-division meetings and gatherings. Maintain a working knowledge of relevant university policies, procedures, and systems—such as those related to travel, procurement, expense, and time reporting—to ensure effective, compliant, and responsible operations.   Demonstrate a collaborative spirit by supporting divisional colleagues and engaging in efforts that advance shared goals and strategic priorities. 

 

Supervisory Relationships:

The Academic Coach in the Center for Student Wellbeing reports to the Assistant Director for Academic Wellbeing and works in close collaboration with faculty Student Affairs staff and administration. 

 

Education and Certifications:

A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is necessary A Master’s degree or other advanced degree in a relevant field such as Higher Education Administration, Student Personnel Services, Health Education or Counseling from an accredited institution is strongly preferred

 

Experience and Skills:

Strong organizational skills and self-motivation are required Strong communication (oral and written) and public relations skills are required Ability to work effectively with students from diverse backgrounds attending highly selective institutions with a broad range of campus groups, departments, and organizations is required Two years of experience providing academic skills support is strongly preferred Experience with the following are strongly preferred:  direct experience with neurodiverse learners and/or students with disabilities in an educational context experience in motivational interviewing techniques experience with academic skills outreach programming in a collegiate environment certification or training in executive functioning support services certification or training in ADHD or other learning differences knowledge and experience in assessing and implementing best practices in academic skill-building experience in designing and delivering workshops and programs about wellbeing and academic skills  experience providing consultation and training with staff, faculty, others about academic success skills and ability to train or coach student leaders, volunteers and/or peer mentors