As of fall 2024, all ACC work-study students and their supervisors are officially part of the ACC GROW program. This exciting initiative marks a major step in transforming traditional student employment into high-impact learning experiences that prepare students for career success.
“By integrating work and learning, ACC GROW (Guided Reflections on Work) empowers students to connect academic knowledge with real-world experiences,” says Lisa Dorris, Career Services Outreach & Special Programs manager. “We’re here to help students build their career readiness — in everything from communication and teamwork to problem-solving and leadership.”
Key benefits for students and supervisors include:
- Tailored resources and tools for career development
- Community-building opportunities for students to grow professionally and for staff to connect with a network of mentors
- Personalized coaching for students to navigate their work experiences, as well as strategies for supervisors to enhance their mentoring
- Alignment with ACC’s North Star Goal of increasing completion rates to 70% by 2030 and contributing to a culture of belonging at the college
Data show promising results. Since its launch in fall 2023, 90% of GROW students at ACC report feeling better prepared for employment after graduation, and 92% say that coaching helped them connect their work experiences to their academics.
From launching the “Moonshot” rocket at a national competition to providing free tax assistance for Central Texans at the Prosper Tax Centers located in the Highland Campus ACCelerator, ACC GROW participants have been making a difference in their communities and beyond.
Supervisors are also redefining their roles as mentors and coaches, fostering a workplace culture of growth and collaboration at ACC.
One supervisor shared their experience with ACC GROW:
“GROW has completely changed the way I approach supervising students. Instead of focusing solely on tasks, I now see my role as a mentor and coach. Watching my students connect their daily work to their long-term goals has been incredibly rewarding.”
Get Involved
To learn more about becoming a GROW supervisor and supporting student success, visit austincc.edu/GROW or contact us at [email protected].