Volunteer College Coach (2026 -2027)

Breakthrough New York partners with ambitious, academically motivated, low-income students who aspire to be first generation college graduates. We make a long-term commitment to students on their journey to and through college, unlocking the power of education and a lifetime of opportunity. Our ten-year, tuition-free program arms students with the resources, relationships, and resolve necessary to succeed in high school, in college, and beyond.. Our tuition-free program supports over 500 students and their families from 7th grade through college. We accept middle school students who are furthest from high-quality educational opportunities yet show promise and potential: 99% of students identify as persons of color; 76% qualify for free or reduced lunch; and 66% will be the first in their families to graduate college.

As a ten-year program, Breakthrough New York supports students and their families through key transition points in their academic journeys. We provide academic enrichment through summer and after-school opportunities; coach students to gain admissions into selective high schools and colleges, and expose students to diverse interests and careers so they can shape their own trajectories.

In addition to nurturing individual talent, we cultivate a thriving community of like-minded peers and mentors who encourage each other’s ambitions and passions. Personalized mentorship and holistic support are signature elements of our model, with over 200 near-peer seasonal staff and volunteers who work with students at each stage of our continuum.

The Breakthrough model works: over 98% of Breakthrough students graduate from college preparatory high schools, and 100% are on track to graduate from college. Learn more at Breakthrough NY's website.

As a volunteer College Coach, you will provide holistic mentorship to a caseload of up to five upperclassmen college students throughout the year to ensure that they have access to resources and guidance to be successful academically and professionally. Working with the Director of the College and Career Program, College Coaches meet (virtually or in-person) with each student on their caseload on a regular basis to check-in and follow-up regarding progress towards key milestones (such as class registration, FAFSA completion and internship placement). This will require building positive, affirming relationships with students and offering guidance relevant to their experience and their goals; following the bimonthly coach checklist to share vital information with students as well as additional resources/updates/etc.; reaching out to students at least four times during each check-in month and communicating with the Director if students are ultimately unresponsive; submitting timely, detailed case notes summarizing coaching sessions with students; and elevating critical student concerns to the Director for additional support.