As first-year business students at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln learn from professors and industry professionals in the new Introduction to Business (MNGT 101) course, they are also guided by a built-in support system of peer coaches. These sophomore, junior and senior coaches help the new students understand the different aspects of business while guiding their transition into college.
“During their first semester, our new business students learn about all the major areas of business and how they connect during the Introduction to Business class two days a week. Then on Fridays, the student coaches guide them through activity-based sessions in smaller groups to apply those lessons and help prepare them for their first business competition, the Business Battle, that is embedded in the course,” said Laurie Miller, associate dean of undergraduate programs and curriculum.
The nearly 30 coaches, coordinated through the Teaching and Learning Center, meet with freshmen during the semester. The one-on-one meetings and small groups sessions give students a chance to ask questions they might not feel comfortable addressing in a large lecture class.
“The impact of the coaches is immediate,” said Jess Fernau, assistant director of experiential learning. “A student struggling in math gets connected to a tutor, or someone with a roommate or financial issue gets connected to the right campus resource. The coaches help first-year students succeed before things snowball.”
MotoAmerica, the world’s premier motorcycle road racing championship, sponsored the Business Battle in its inaugural year. Richard Varner, '76, serves as the organization’s chief financial officer.
“Coaches are critical to helping teams make decisions, just like in the business world,” Varner said. “My first class was a 7:30 a.m. accounting course with no context for how that fit into business. New students need to learn the different facets of business and figure out early where they might fit best or if they do at all.”
Junior management major and student coach Christian Newcomer said his conversations with students often reveal how uncertain many are when they start college.
“Students discover what they’re interested in across business through this class,” said Newcomer, who is from Lincoln, Nebraska. “I’ve had students switch majors after learning about something they liked in class. Others realize business might not be the right fit, and that’s valuable too because they find that out early.”
Chris Woerth, a senior management major from Lincoln and student coach in the course, said leading the small-group activities on Fridays has been especially rewarding.
“I enjoy helping new students discover the differences between majors like accounting, finance, management and marketing,” Woerth said. “I never had that opportunity when I first came to the College of Business, so it’s important for me to serve as a resource and offer support.”
As the coaches answer questions about classes, campus life and resources, they also foster a sense of connection among new students.
“A lot of students don’t know anyone else here when they start college, especially those from out of state,” Newcomer said. “Being able to say, 'Hi,' and talk to someone who recognizes you in class and around campus can make a huge difference.”
In addition to being a paid position through sponsor funding, the coaches also further develop professional skills for the workplace. Senior finance and accounting major Kaylen Cote from Onarga, Illinois, wanted to hone her communication and presentation skills.
“Being in this role helped me grow and learn to better engage and communicate in a way that is easy to understand,” Cote said. “I’ve also learned how important it is to create a comfortable environment where they feel like they can ask any questions or reach out if they need help.”
Serving as a coach also influenced Newcomer’s career interests.
“I originally thought I wanted to work in project management and sit behind a computer,” he said. “But working with students made me realize how much I enjoy talking and working with people.”
Woerth said the experience confirmed all he’s learned throughout his time in the College of Business.
“There’s no better way to reinforce what you’ve learned than helping someone else understand it,” he said.
First-year students also shared how the coaches’ support made a meaningful difference during their first semester.
“The student coaches were extremely helpful, providing support not only with the transition to college and schoolwork but also with general well-being,” said Adleigh Beck, a sophomore accounting major from Bennington, Nebraska.
Brooklyn Wigley, a freshman accounting major from Lincoln, said the coaches broadened her business perspective.
“The interactive activities and discussions around what we learned in class that were led by the coaches helped me better understand the different parts of business," Wigley said. “I also learned about majors and industries that I hadn’t thought about before."
