As an Academic Coach, you will play a pivotal role in guiding new students through their journey at Penn Engineering Online. By leveraging your own experience and expertise, you’ll provide invaluable support, helping students navigate the program, connect with essential resources, and address any concerns they may have.
Academic Coaches serve as trusted peers who meet regularly with students, offering personalized guidance through their introductory courses in the online MCIT, MSE-DS, and MSE-AI degree programs. Your role is to empower students to succeed and thrive in their academic journey, ensuring they have the tools and confidence to achieve their goals.
Program Benefits
Mentor
Provide personalized support to students as they navigate their courses at Penn Engineering Online and work toward their long-term career goals.
Tutor
Offer supplemental learning support to students in their introductory courses, tailored to their specific program needs:
- MCIT: CIT 5910, 5920, or 5930
- MSE-DS: CIS 5450 or CIS 5500
- MSE-AI: CIS 5210
Leadership Experience
Host informational webinars, study sessions, and office hours to help students become familiar with program platforms and university resources, ensuring a smooth transition into the learning environment.
Structure
Responsibilities include:
- Provide tutoring and coaching services each week by hosting both open and private office hours for students.
- Offer one-on-one support to help students navigate common challenges, such as adjusting to academic life, managing time effectively, developing strong study habits, and succeeding in introductory courses.
- Lead group information sessions on key topics that promote student success. Topics may include using student tools and platforms, effective learning strategies, and foundational academic concepts. Sessions are flexible and can be tailored to meet students’ evolving needs.
Eligibility
- Three or more courses completed
- Strong GPA and grades (3.0+)
- A final grade of an A or B in the course you will be supporting
- Some experience and enthusiasm for teaching, mentoring, or advising is preferred
- Bandwidth to support students for at least 10 – 15 hours per week
- Energetic, positive, and supportive characteristics
- US Citizens or Permanent Residents and reside in the United States at the time of employment
Training Requirements
- Includes both real-time and asynchronous components
- Covers guidance on advising students, best practices for effective tutoring, and an overview of key program and university resources
Need-to-Know Details
- We anticipate coaches will work on average 10-15 hrs/week
- December 15, 2025 – April 26, 2026
- Curent Students: $18/hr
- Alum: $20/hr