Certified Student Career Coach (CSCC)

This Course is available as self study or also offered twice a year live.

Become a certified student career coach (CSCC)

Learn best practices to provide a holistic support system for your students’ career development.

Set yourself apart by learning to incorporate vocational theories, assessments, coaching strategies, empowerment techniques, and cutting-edge technology tools into your services and student interactions.

Join the CSCC program for a transformative experience designed to arm you with the essential tools to guide current students into their career journeys.

Certified Student Career Coach (CSCC)

Self-Study: ^$795

Successful CSCC Candidates Receive:
30 CEUs
Holistic training on vocational theories, coaching strategies, and digital tools for student career development.
Methodologies to help students navigate career choices and overcome barriers to success.
Insights into leveraging technology and social media platforms like LinkedIn to enhance students’ job search efforts.
Exclusive access to LIVE Virtual Office Hours with the instructor, available to all enrollees past and present, fostering continuous learning and open communication.
Use of the “CSCC” credential after your name and a CSCC Certificate for display in your office.
Recognition of your earned credential in the PARWCC Spotlight magazine.

Membership Required

What makes the CSCC program special?

A Comprehensive Curriculum – Our 4-module course gives you a deep dive into foundational career theories like the Krumboltz Social Theory framework and the future of work. Get ready to confidently navigate students through their complex career choices.
Inclusivity in Coaching – The CSCC program emphasizes the importance of understanding diverse student needs. Whether you’re coaching Gen Z, Millennials, first-generation students, military-affiliated individuals, students of color, or neurodiverse individuals, we prepare you to advocate for each unique career journey.
Advance Your Digital Literacy – You’ll gain practical skills in technology and digital tools, allowing you to guide students in the modern job search, from résumé building to networking in the modern world of Zoom, LinkedIn, ATS, and AI.

Why Should You Enroll

By mastering these unique skills, you will be able to offer students unprecedented opportunities and insights, propelling them toward success in today’s competitive job market.

Open New Doors: As a Certified Student Career Coach, you’ll have access to opportunities in a wide range of educational institutions and organizations. You’re not just enhancing your career—you’re making a significant impact on the students you coach.
Collaboration and Development: Redefine how career offices and professionals work together. Our program enables you to offer holistic support to students, changing the landscape of career development.
Master the Modern Job Search: The CSCC program stands out for its focus on modern search platforms, including LinkedIn and the role of Artificial Intelligence in job hunting. These skills enable you to offer students unique and timely insights, preparing them for success in a competitive market.
Ethics Take Center Stage: But it’s not all about skill acquisition. We take ethical considerations seriously, teaching you to coach in a way that prioritizes student well-being and ethical conduct. By doing so, you establish yourself as a trusted and credible resource.
A Comprehensive Approach: Our cutting-edge curriculum encompasses foundational theories, emerging technologies, and best practices in career coaching. As a CSCC, you’ll be at the forefront of your field.

Don’t miss this opportunity to be a catalyst for change in the world of career coaching. With the Certified Student Career Coach program, you’ll be well-equipped to make a lasting impact on your students, and the institutions and companies you engage with.

What Do You Get If You Join This Program?

Participants who complete the Certified Student Career Coach (CSCC) program will receive a multitude of valuable benefits and opportunities, including:

Expert-Led Webinars: Access 4 webinar modules facilitated by an experienced career coach with a doctorate in education. This means top-notch training, straight from the experts.
Robust Curriculum: Grasp essential career theories, coaching strategies, and digital tools to be an effective coach for students navigating the future of work.
Self-Awareness: Learn about your own coaching style and discover how your personal beliefs can either make or break your coaching effectiveness.
Diversity Expertise: Stand out as an expert in understanding diverse student groups. You’ll be prepared to coach individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and with various employmentbarriers.
Practical Assignments: Take on assignments that you can immediately use in your own organization, sharpening your coaching skills in real-time.
Open Dialogue: Join a judgment-free zone that encourages you to engage, ask questions, and explore new ideas openly.
Peer Interaction: Gain from the collective wisdom of other career coaches. You never know what insight or strategy might spark your next big idea.
Prestigious Credential: Earn the CSCC credential and the right to display our logo when you’re done with the course.

With the CSCC program, you’re not just boosting your own career; you’re shaping the future for your students and setting new standards in career coaching. Don’t miss out on this chance to make a real difference.

Course Content

Module 1 / Week 1

Navigating the Future: Theories and Self-Assessment in Student Career Coaching

Description: Module 1 lays the foundation for the Certified Student Career Coaching program by providing an in-depth exploration of essential vocational theories and guiding coaches to assess their own coaching style. Participants will gain insights into the future of work, the role of vocational theories in student career coaching, and the application of the Krumboltz Social Theory as a powerful framework. Participants will also conduct a self-assessment to understand their coaching approach and how personal beliefs and practices influence their coaching effectiveness.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

Explain the significance of vocational/career theories in guiding student career coaching and their impact on career development.
Apply the Krumboltz Social Theory as a framework to address the complexities of career decision-making and planning for students effectively.
Analyze data and labor market trends to understand the future of work and its implications on students’ career opportunities.
Assess their own coaching style, recognize personal beliefs, and understand how they influence their coaching practices.
Identify skilling and upskilling opportunities that align with the evolving employment options in the future job market.

Module 2 / Week 2

Empowering Students: Understanding and Implementing Effective Coaching Strategies

Description: Module 2 delves into the crucial aspect of understanding students and equips coaches with effective strategies to empower their student clients. Participants will explore the unique characteristics and needs of various student demographics, including Gen Z, Millennials, First-Generation students, Military-affiliated students, and those from diverse backgrounds, such as students of color and neurodivergent individuals. The session emphasizes the importance of student career coaching, effective communication, instilling confidence, and helping students recognize their potential while setting attainable goals.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

Identify and explain the distinct traits, skills, and abilities exhibited by different student demographics, understanding the importance of adapting coaching approaches accordingly.
Develop effective communication strategies that resonate with students and facilitate meaningful conversations, fostering a positive impact on their career development journey.
Apply coaching techniques to help students recognize and embrace their unique potential, boosting their self-confidence and self-efficacy.
Demonstrate proficiency in goal-setting methods that encourage students to set achievable objectives aligned with their aspirations and capabilities.
Recognize the complexities associated with coaching Gen Z, Millennials, First-Generation students, Military-affiliated students, and diverse groups, and tailor coaching practices to address their specific needs.

Become a Career Coach

Module 3 / Week 3

Overcoming Barriers: Empowering Students to Navigate Career Challenges

Description: Module 3 equips student career coaches with the necessary skills and knowledge to identify barriers that hinder students from making optimal career decisions. Coaches will explore a wide range of barriers, including external factors such as parental influence, teacher and coach dynamics, social capital, neighborhood, transportation, and the impact of assessments and testing. They will learn how to help students recognize and understand these barriers, taking responsibility for guiding them through the process of developing strategies to overcome these challenges. Additionally, the session will delve into the ethical considerations that arise when working with students and offer insights into the coach’s role as an advocate in student career coaching.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

Identify various barriers that can impede a student’s career decision-making process, distinguishing between internal and external factors.
Employ effective coaching techniques to assist students in recognizing and understanding their individual barriers, fostering self-awareness and empowerment.
Develop strategies to support students in overcoming barriers, helping them build resilience and self-efficacy in their career exploration journey.
Understand the ethical considerations that arise when working with students and demonstrate an ethical approach in career coaching interactions.
Collaborate with other professionals involved in student career development, fostering strong partnerships for the benefit of the students’ holistic growth.

Module 4 / Week 4

Empowering Career Advancement: Technology Integration and Best Practices in Student Career Coaching

Description: Module 4 delves into the integration of technology and best practices in student career coaching, focusing on leveraging digital tools for job searching, personal branding, and networking. Participants will explore various aspects of modern job application processes, including résumé building, cover letter writing, and effective interviewing techniques. The session also emphasizes the importance of teaching students how to use LinkedIn strategically and how to harness the potential of emerging technology, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), to enhance their job search efforts. Additionally, ethical considerations related to AI in hiring and job searching will be discussed, along with the value of using assessment tools to measure progress and success.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

Demonstrate technology and digital literacy skills, utilizing digital tools to support students in job searching, networking, and personal branding.
Assist students in crafting effective résumé, cover letters, networking e-mails, and prepare for interviews using best practices.
Guide students in leveraging social media platforms, particularly LinkedIn, to enhance their professional presence and network effectively.
Examine the role of AI in the job search process and identify available tools to aid students in optimizing their job searching strategies.
Evaluate various assessment tools used in career coaching to measure student progress and success, and understand how private coaches can complement and collaborate with career offices for student support.

Meet Your Instructor – Dr. Natascha F. Saunders

Get ready to be mentored by one of the best in the business—Dr. Natascha F. Saunders, or Natascha, as she’s known. She’s a powerhouse career coach with a dynamic track record of empowering everyone from students to executives.

Highlights:

Current Roles: Founder of The Youth Career Coach Inc., Associate Director and Career Coach at Harvard Kennedy School
Expertise: Higher Education, Human Resources, Leadership Development, Personal Branding
Credentials: Ed.D. in Leadership and Communications, Masters in Business Administration, Certified in Career Coaching by PARWCC
Features: New York Times, Scholastic, NPR, Working Mother, ABC, iHeart.

Dr. Natascha F. Saunders is a seasoned career coach with top-tier experience, including positions at Harvard, Brown, and a track record of guiding her students to secure coveted roles with industry giants such as Apple and Google.

An innovator at heart, she’s created tools like the M.I.C.R.O.© Personal Branding Assessment to help individuals maximize their potential. A trusted thought leader, Natascha blends research with real-world insights, all while actively empowering diverse communities. With her at the helm of the Certified Student Career Coach (CSCC) program, you’re in expert hands.

Under Natascha’s guidance in the Certified Student Career Coach (CSCC) program, you’ll gain the insights and tools to make a significant impact in your career, as well as in the lives of the students you coach.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Certified Student Career Coach Program

What is the required text for the program, and is it available in Kindle or audio format?

Rest assured, there are no additional costs for required texts. All readings will be provided in PDF format, free of charge. The material will include coaching-type business case articles, peer-reviewed journal articles, self-reflection activities, and a research book (my book). You can choose readings based on your interests, and all materials will be accessible in PDF format.

What deliverables are required for certification?

The program includes engaging deliverables such as quizzes for each module (open notes/open resources), short answers, self-assessments, and other fun activities. The goal is to make the learning experience enriching and enjoyable. No timed tests or multiple-choice assessments will be administered, and an oral test option is available upon request.

Will sessions be recorded, and can I access them if I miss a session?

Yes, all classes will be recorded using Zoom and uploaded to the portal. You can review the sessions at your convenience, whether you attend live or watch the replay.

What support and accessibility options are available?

Accessibility is a priority. If you need accommodations, please email me at [email protected]. Having been diagnosed with a learning disability myself, I understand the importance of accommodating individual needs. I am committed to providing a supportive learning environment and am readily accessible throughout the program. ‘Office Hours’ will be available for additional support.

ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

I am committed to creating an inclusive learning environment. If you require accommodations, please email me at [email protected]. I have personal experience with a learning disability and have successfully coached clients and taught adults with various learning needs.

Your success in this program is my #1 priority.

Is there any cost associated with the suggested optional texts?

While I may suggest some favorite texts, they are entirely optional to purchase and will not be required for exams or homework assignments.

When will the online portal be populated with course content?

The online portal is targeted to be populated with course syllabus by Sunday, January 28, ahead of our start on Thursday, February 1st. No advance work is required.

How can I approach my employer to fund this program as part of my professional development?

Approaching your employer for professional development support can be a strategic step. Here’s a sample email template to initiate the conversation:

SAMPLE EMAIL DRAFT:

Subject: Proposal for Professional Development Investment – Certified Student Career Coach Program

Dear [Supervisor’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my enthusiasm about an upcoming professional development opportunity that aligns seamlessly with my role and responsibilities at [Your Company/Organization Name].

I have come across the Certified Student Career Coach Program, which offers comprehensive training in career coaching and leadership development. Given the increasing focus on talent development and mentorship within our organization, I believe this program will not only enhance my skills but also contribute significantly to our team’s success.

The program, led by Dr. Natascha F. Saunders, comes highly recommended, and I am confident that the insights gained will directly impact our approach to employee career development and advancement.

To make the most of this opportunity, I am seeking your support to cover the program fees as part of our ongoing commitment to professional growth. The benefits of this investment will extend beyond my personal development, positively influencing our team’s ability to guide and support employees/students / alumni / community effectively.

Here is a breakdown of the estimated costs:

Program Fee: [Insert Cost]

Duration: 4 weeks

Expected Outcomes: [List specific outcomes relevant to your job]

I believe this investment is a strategic move for our team, and I am more than willing to discuss how the learnings can be shared and applied within our organization upon completion of the program.

Thank you for considering my request, and I look forward to the possibility of contributing even more effectively to our team’s success with the enhanced skills gained through this program.

Best regards,

[Your Full Name]
[Your Position]
[Your Contact Information]

What do I gain from this program? Will it be beneficial to me?

Thank you for considering our Certified Student Career Coach Program. We support this program, its curriculum, and the vibrant community it fosters. Drawing from my experience coaching in diverse sectors and serving students globally, we’ve crafted a foundational program comprising four modules.

While this isn’t an exhaustive deep dive, it’s a concentrated four-week introductory journey designed to address the foundational needs of coaching students.

To determine if this program aligns with your goals, consider creating a mini-rubric:

Course Description Resonance:
- Review the course description – does it resonate with your coaching aspirations and objectives?
Weekly Subject Matter:
- Examine each week’s subject matter – can you benefit from expanding your knowledge in these specific areas?
Curriculum Integration:
- Assess your ability to integrate the curriculum into your coaching practice – does it align with your coaching philosophy?
Community Building:
- Are you seeking to build a community and connect with like-minded individuals focused on student coaching?
Personalized Measuring Tool:
- Utilize points 1-4 and any additional criteria important to you as a personalized measuring tool.

Extra: Watch Natascha’s video as she talks through what is covered in each module: https://youtu.be/csTkRf-MeTk?si=uaRhUSUC_E2T5Fyb

Remember, this program is a focused and foundational step towards enhancing your skills in coaching students. It’s about what aligns best with your professional development journey. Feel free to reach out if you have more specific questions or need further clarification.

I live overseas, outside the United States, would this focus mostly on the United States?

While I am based in the United States, my extensive experience as a former Goodwill Ambassador to Gambia and my service to students from over 100+ countries provide me with a unique perspective on the intricacies and needs of students globally. It’s important to note that my viewpoint is U.S.- based, yet the program is designed to be inclusive and offer insights that transcend countries.

Here are some additional considerations:

Global Relevance:

A portion of the content transcends geographic boundaries. Concepts like understanding vocational theories and certain personality traits, challenges, and strategies can be universally applicable.

Global Career Perspectives:

Many students reaching out for coaching aspire to work, intern and study globally. I have coached students pursuing roles in international organizations such as the World Bank, United Nations, many organizations with international office locations, and non-profits, including those in very rural areas. Our perspective in this foundational course broadens to acknowledge diverse student backgrounds and career goals across the world.

3.) U.S. Opportunities

We have seen a rise in students from various countries seeking opportunities in the United States. Statista reports that 1,057,188 international students were studying in the U.S. in 2022/23. Regardless of your location, chances are you’ll encounter students aspiring to study or work in the U.S., and this program provides insights into their expectations.

4.) International Student Dynamics

I, with experience coaching and teaching international students, grasp the intricacies of navigating careers between their home countries and the U.S. As a consultant and facilitator for organizations in 142 countries, I bring a wealth of global perspectives. With over 10 years of teaching at Northeastern University, Global Pathway Program (ranked #1 Most International Students, US Student and Exchange Visitor Program 2020), as well as currently working at Harvard Kennedy School of Government with a diverse and thriving international student community – I am committed to serving coaches who serve ALL students.

5.) Exploration of Global Career Nuances

While this program does not delve deeply into complex topics like H1B, OPT/CPT, and Visas, it acknowledges these opportunities. Peer collaboration offers the chance to explore these nuances further.

6.) Global Network

Our Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Career Coaches (PARW/CC) includes members from various countries, reflecting a growing global presence.

7.) Hands-on Learning & Adaptability

The program encourages hands-on learning where your expertise contributes. If discussions or data are U.S.- centric, you’re encouraged to proactively explore and contribute insights from your country. The program aims to empower you to adapt coaching practices to your specific context, making them relevant and impactful in your region.

Remember, this is a foundational 4-week program fostering a collaborative learning environment, and your active participation ensures the curriculum becomes a tailored and enriching experience, irrespective of your location.

Thank each of you for considering joining the Certified Student Career Coach Program. I look forward to the opportunity of working together to ensure your success!

Best regards,

Dr. Natascha F. Saunders

Have more questions? If so, email: [email protected]

Why PARWCC? Voices from our Community

The CPRW Certification is the benchmark for being a recognized resume writer.

Investing in the continuous training and education provided by PARWCC makes me a trusted advisor…My hobby turned into a 5-figure business in one year because I invested in my education and received the career coaching credential from PARWCC.

Debraca R.

Agape Career Counseling Group

PARWCC’s extensive library of resources, networking opportunities, and career services insights have significantly enhanced my ability to deliver exceptional services to my clients…and equipped me to help job seekers achieve their career goals with confidence and expertise.

Dustin B.

417 Resume Renovators

I was fortunate to be a part of the 1st cohort of the Certified Student Career Coach (CSCC), and Dr. Saunders’ expertise, homework exercises, and her breadth of resources enhanced my understanding of the material by providing practical hands-on exercises.

Towanda W.

Coach for New Life

I’ve gotten so much value out of being part of this community! I love the monthly networking calls and webinars included in the membership, and attending the in-person Thrive! conference was truly a highlight of the year for me.

Tali S.

Bold Career Talk

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