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CommLab Coach

Undergraduate coaches carry the primary responsibility for assisting the CommLab clients. By working as a CommLab coach, you get to practice your interpersonal communication skills and presentational skills, while living out Ut Prosim and building your resume! We welcome applicants from any major!

If you are interested in taking the required course to become a CommLab coach, fill out the form here by reading day: CommLab Application

If selected, CommLab coaches will train for one semester before working for pay.

Key Responsibilities

Peer Speech Coaching and Support

  • Offer individualized guidance to students preparing speeches or presentations.

  • Assist clients in developing, organizing, and revising their speeches and visual aids.

  • Support group projects by facilitating collaboration and presentation rehearsal.

  • Record practice sessions or review recorded speeches brought in by students.

  • Provide constructive feedback to help clients improve delivery, organization, and audience engagement.

Lab Operations and Professionalism

  • Exhibit professional behavior and uphold the confidentiality of all client interactions.

  • Complete client session notes and other appointment-related documentation accurately and promptly.

  • Create a friendly, respectful, and inclusive environment for clients and fellow coaches.

  • Communicate regularly with the CommLab Director regarding lab updates, challenges, and scheduling.

  • Maintain CommLab spaces, technology, and equipment in good working order.
  • Contribute to additional projects that enhance CommLab operations or promote campus awareness of its services.

Qualifications

  • Current Virginia Tech student in good academic standing (3.0 GPA or higher).

  • Successful completion of COMM 2004 or COMM 1016 (additional courses with strong presentation requirements will be considered if information is provided).

  • Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.

  • Ability to provide clear, constructive feedback in a supportive manner.

  • Professional demeanor and commitment to maintaining confidentiality.

Benefits 

  • Gain hands-on experience in communication coaching, leadership, and peer mentoring.

  • Strengthen your own public speaking, collaboration, and feedback skills.

  • Join a community of students dedicated to Ut Prosim helping Hokies succeed.

  • Opportunities to present at campus, regional, and national events.

Coaching Compensation Options

Field Study

Coaches can work to earn one-three field study credits (pass-fail) by working their set number of hours each week in the CommLab. (Course credit is awarded by the number of hours worked per week. For every 1 hour of credit, the student is required to work 2 hours per week. For example, 3 Field Study credit hours require 6 hours of lab work per week.)

Paid Positions

Coaches who complete the training course (1 credit hour) can seek a paid position in the lab, as funds are available. These student employees are responsible for completing Federal and State employment paperwork and are responsible for updating their time sheets. Students get paid bi-weekly.

How to Apply

We welcome applicants from any major! If you are interested in applying, please fill out the form here by reading day of each semester: Application