Student-Athlete Success Program (SASP) Academic Coach
The Student-Athlete Success Program (SASP) is seeking dedicated and motivated graduate students to serve as Academic Coaches for student-athletes who benefit from structured academic support. Academic Coaches provide approximately 6–10 hours per week of individualized academic support, depending on student need and scheduling. All positions are based on the Storrs campus and require in-person availability.
SUMMARY
Academic Coaches work directly with student-athletes to strengthen the academic and executive-function skills essential for success at the higher education level. Through consistent one-on-one meetings, Academic Coaches help students develop effective learning strategies, improve organization and time management, and build the independent study habits required for sustained academic progress. This role emphasizes how to learn, supporting students in building skills, routines, and confidence. Academic Coaches help student-athletes navigate the demands of college academics while fostering long-term growth and self-determination.
JOB DUTIES
- Manage a caseload of assigned students within the Academic Coaching program and provide one-on-one strategy instruction to meet students’ established goals.
- Conduct initial assessments (e.g., LASSI, VARK, study habits inventory) to help students identify their strengths, challenges, and learning patterns.
- Use assessment results to empower students in setting semester goals (e.g., SMART, GROW, time-based, or performance-based goals).
- Engage in coaching-informed conversations that encourage reflection, build insight, and promote sustainable academic behaviors over time.
- Co-create weekly and semester action plans with students to encourage accountability and follow-through.
- Record detailed confidential case notes in Teamwork Academics system with respect to FERPA, HIPPA, NCAA, Institutional, and Departmental policies.
- Attend weekly mentor meetings to check in with SASP Assistant Director of Learning Services to share observation, receive feedback, and refine academic support plans.
Academic Mentors will support student-athletes in areas such as:
- Establishing, collaboratively, and achieving weekly academic goals.
- Strengthening comprehension and retention of textbooks and scholarly, academic articles.
- Developing organizational systems for notes, assignments, and course materials.
- Using effective time-management tools to plan assignments, projects, and exams.
- Applying and practicing evidence-based study strategies (e.g., spaced practice, active recall, concept mapping, flashcards).• Building academic routines that promote independence, accountability, and long-term growth.
- Educating on CSD process for requests for accommodation letters at the beginning of the semester (as needed).
Academic Coaches do not track grades, communicate with instructors, or provide course-specific tutoring. Those functions are supported by other SASP programs.
QUALIFICATIONS
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build positive, encouraging relationships with student-athletes.
- Coursework or experience in special education, reading instruction, counseling, psychology, social work, student services, student development, or related areas.
- High level of professionalism, reliability, and commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
- Ability to work effectively with students from diverse backgrounds and with varying learning needs.
- Strong organizational skills and comfort working within a flexible, evolving schedule.
POSITION DETAILS
- Compensation: $20.34/hour
- Hours: Primarily morning or evenings but varies
- Training: Mandatory training provided upon hiring
- Meetings: Regular check-ins with the Assistant Director of Learning Services
HOW TO APPLY
Interested candidates should contact Gabrielle Lima, Assistant Director of Learning Services, at gabrielle.lima@uconn.edu. Please include:
- Resume
- Cover letter
- At least one professional reference
For more information, contact: Gabrielle Lima at gabrielle.lima@uconn.edu