Over the past year, more than 7,200 Colorado Class of 2024 learners enrolled in Opportunity Next coaching. Opportunity Next coaches help learners identify their education and career goals and create plans for reaching them. Here are a few highlights from a year of Opportunity Next coaching: 

Reaching Gen Z

Opportunity Next coaching is remote, making it accessible to learners across Colorado. Learners have appreciated this flexibility: more than half of learners have communicated with their coach by text message, while 43% of learners have worked with their coaches over the phone.

Most Often Discussed Career Pathways

Coaching has resonated with learners regardless of their career interests. Of those learners who have shared their career aspirations with their coach, the most discussed pathways have been: 1) healthcare, 2) computer and information sciences, and 3) construction. 

Highest Need Coaching Topics

Learners drive coaching conversations, choosing the topics they’d like to work on. Overwhelmingly, academics is the number one topic Opportunity Next learners have tackled with their coaches (392 coaching sessions), followed by wellness (164 coaching sessions), and motivation (154 coaching sessions). Coaching sessions on academics support learners in strengthening study habits or preparing to meet with an instructor, while a session related to wellness might touch on self-care and stress management.

Coaching Stories

A learner at Colorado State University Pueblo shared with her coach that procrastinating to complete the FAFSA was causing her stress. Her coach suggested she create a concrete plan, including a specific day and location to work on the application. When her coach checked in, the learner had already submitted the FAFSA and felt great. “Even more, I’m relieved,” she said.

Another learner at the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Training Trust Fund was interested in finding an apprenticeship, but wasn’t sure where to start. His coach helped him identify existing resources through his program, and together they made a plan to reach out to his teacher and the IEC office for guidance on next steps. This helped the learner be resourceful and recognize the power of his network.  

A University of Denver learner wanted to do well on her geography exam and receive support from her professor. She worked with her coach to create a study plan for the exam, and together they drafted a clear and concise email to her professor. When her coach asked how she felt, the learner shared, “It's one thing to make a plan, but a whole other level to get feedback from my professor!”

With the support of their coaches, learners are navigating their futures with greater confidence.

For more information about Opportunity Next coaching, read our Coaching 101 blog.

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