College Success & Retention Coaching
Guiding students to thrive in college and beyond
What College Success & Retention Coaching Does
College is one of the most exciting chapters in life, full of new opportunities, friendships, and personal growth. But it can also feel overwhelming. Classes are tougher, campus systems are unfamiliar, and managing independence while balancing academics and social life is no small feat. Many students wonder if they’re on the right track, and parents often worry about how best to support them from the sidelines.
The reality is that these challenges are common. National research shows:
About 1 in 4 students do not return for their second year (National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, 2023).
There are significant challenges that students face in the transition. (https://www.collegetransitions.com/blog/college-dropout-rate-in-the-us/)
This information isn’t meant to scare but instead it highlights a truth: navigating college can be tricky, but with the right guidance, students can create a different, successful path. That’s where College Success & Retention Coaching comes in.
Coaching isn’t tutoring or academic advising. It’s a personalized, supportive partnership that focuses on the whole student. Through one-on-one sessions, students gain the guidance, skills, and encouragement to:
Build confidence and self-advocacy skills
Develop practical time management and study strategies
Reduce stress while balancing school, social life, and self-care
Clarify meaningful academic and personal goals
Connect with the right resources and people on campus
Research shows that students who receive consistent, personalized support are more likely to stay in school, earn higher GPAs, and graduate on time (NSCRC, 2025). Coaching helps students face challenges early, celebrate wins, and feel empowered in their college journey. Parents gain confidence knowing their student has guidance, structure, and support every step of the way.
Coaching Options
-
First-Year Transition Coaching
The first year is foundational. Weekly coaching (for at least one semester, ideally a year) helps students adjust to college life, build strong routines, and feel confident navigating academics and campus opportunities.
-
Transfer Student Coaching
Transferring schools can feel uncertain. Coaching guides students in finding the right fit, managing applications, and settling into a new campus so they can thrive quickly.
-
Current College Student Coaching
Even after the first year, it’s normal to feel off-track or unsure of goals. Coaching helps students reconnect with their purpose, reset motivation, and create a plan for making the most of their college experience.
Why College Success & Retention Coaching Matters
College Success & Retention Coaching is about helping students thrive, not just survive. Students develop skills, confidence, and resilience that last beyond graduation. Parents can feel reassured their student has a trusted partner providing guidance and accountability.
This coaching creates a safe space for students to:
Ask questions and reflect honestly
Take small, practical steps forward
Build habits and confidence that ensure success
With College Success & Retention Coaching, students are better prepared to navigate challenges, make the most of opportunities, and graduate on time, confident, and ready for what comes next.
FAQs & Quick Info
-
Personalized support that helps students navigate college challenges, develop strategies, and thrive academically and personally.
-
First-year students: Build confidence and strong routines
Transfer students: Navigate school changes smoothly
Current college students: Reset goals and finish strong
-
Students gain time management, stress reduction, and goal-setting skills, along with guidance and accountability to achieve success.
-
Improved academic performance
Greater confidence and independence
Higher likelihood of persisting and graduating on time
Better use of campus resources and opportunities
Why Rebecca?
Every student’s college journey is unique, and I strive to meet each student where they are, listening closely, asking thoughtful questions, and helping them build on their strengths.
With degrees from Vassar College and Harvard’s Graduate School of Education, and over a decade of experience guiding students through major transitions, I bring both expertise and empathy to my work. I understand what college feels like from the inside, the excitement, the uncertainty, and the pressure, and I know how much of a difference having someone in your corner can make.
My approach is warm, practical, and encouraging. I help students gain confidence, develop independence, and realize that they are capable of more than they imagined. Families often tell me that my guidance doesn’t just help students succeed in college, it helps them thrive and grow in ways that last long beyond graduation.