Academic Coach

The Academic Coach is typically provided for high school students, high school graduates and college students who are investigating postsecondary training and education. The tool aligns assessment patterns to the US Department of Labor O*Net occupations in top-down rank order. Each occupation includes the matching academic discipline, degree or program. Profiles also has the ability to designate demand jobs for a region or state.

This assessment tool will identify career possibilities and provide insights into preparing students for the highly skilled, competitive workforce. The O*NET (U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Information Network) provides information about worker characteristics, requirements and related occupations. A link with the O*NET is provided in each student’s report. Additionally, surveys and questionnaires are provided to assist students in making decisions about their college curriculum.

The Academic Coach provides career awareness and selection tools to assist a student in earlier identification and selection of:

• The right postsecondary vocational degree or program
• The right occupation that matches students’ talents, interests and abilities
• The right internship with the right employer

Students whose vocational/educational programs are well matched with their interests, abilities and occupations will:

• Stay in school versus dropping out
• Reduce changes in programs and majors
• Complete their postsecondary education program in a more timely manner
• Reduce the overall cost to the students, the students’ family and postsecondary institutions

Profiles will assist in successfully accomplishing its educational, counseling and peer-to-peer mentoring goals in these ways:

• Provide a tool for counselors, advisors and faculty to help students select courses and programs that match their unique abilities and interests
• Introduce a mechanism for students to learn about their strengths and validate their course selection, career pathways and occupational choices
• Help retain and graduate students who will support the school, college and communities
• Assist in planning for the future by tracking students through graduation and into the workforce