I have been working with college students in a professional setting since 2011. I’ve had the opportunity to mentor many extremely bright students. Because of my mentorship, my mentees refer other students to me. My days are always busy and full of diverse conversations. They have provided me the platform and encouragement to own my skills and share my talent with other students. I love it because it’s what I’m supposed to be doing in student affairs, right? According to my students, I go above and beyond, and therefore, I should become a Life Coach.

A Life Coach? Really? That’s what you want me to do with my life?

Well, because my students generally adhere to my “wisdom,” I thought I would return the favor. Two weeks ago, I earned my Life Coach certification. I am a Certified Professional Life Coach. WOW!

Being a Life Coach is not what I thought. It’s not about giving advice…it’s about partnering with clients on their path for success, happiness, etc. The 3 day course was life changing. While reflecting on the course, it hit me: what if student affairs professionals were given funds to become Life Coaches? How would this change student engagement as we see it now? This questions has been on my mind since completing the program. As an assessment professional, I am always looking for new ways to be more effective in programs and services that address our students’ needs. Funding for student affairs professionals to become life coaches could provide more intentional conversations with students, help for students to arrive at their own solution (which increases critical thinking), and improved overall well being (since most universities speak on holistic wellness).

As a Life Coach, I will be adding College Student Coaching to my business. This service will provide one-on-one coaching to any college student with proof of enrollment. I intend to assist college students on a journey toward success, as defined by themselves. The opportunity to be a Life Coach has opened many doors for me. Using the skill set of a Life Coach, we can address many issues that college students face. My background in counseling and my certification in coaching will help me transform lives!

I became a Life Coach because I listened to my mentees and took their advice for a change! I believe that as mentors, we have to recognize the relationship and be reciprocal. We don’t have all the answers (though mentees think we do). Life is all about learning, and I am thankful for what I have learned from my mentees thus far. What have you done because of a mentee’s genuine interest in your development?