John Newton, EXCEL! Program Coordinator & Academic Success Coach
Fun Facts about me:
- I enjoy playing video games.
- I’ve lived and worked in five different states: CA, OR, WA, CO, & TX.
- I don’t own a car. I only walk, bike, or take the bus.
About Me: Greetings Bobcats! I’m come from San Antonio, TX and attended college as a transfer student receiving my undergraduate degree from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles in International Relations as a first generation low income college student. After a journey across many states and working for several universities, I eventually returned to TX to obtain my Master’s Degree in Higher Education Leadership from the University of Texas at Austin. I’ve worked in Higher Education for over 15 years in various capacities: Admissions, Academic Affairs, Orientation, Financial Aid, Alumni Relations, Residence Life, and Student Success Programs, but my passion is helping first gen college students take full advantage of the university experience. I’ve been at UC Merced for four years as an Academic Coach. I have several hobbies, and they’ve changed over the years, but some remain: Calligraphy. Cycling. Hiking. Reading. Gardening. Yoga. Food. Art. Gaming. Film.
What is my goal as an Academic Coach: To support students interested in getting the most out of the college experience. There’s so much opportunity! If you look for it, and work for it. Even after setbacks or through challenges. College changed me, I hope it changes the students I serve, and as a coach I want to help them discover their potential as they go through their educational experience.
What I wish I knew in college as an undergrad: Seriously, Study Abroad. I was an International Relations major wanting to be an ambassador for the United Nations and NO ONE told me I should study abroad to experience living in a different country in preparation for the role. For the students I serve, I support experiences. Wherever they can find them. Prepare for the role you want to play. That’s what college can do.
What would I be doing if I weren’t an EXCEL! Academic Coach: I have so many interests, so if I didn’t have a career in higher education, it would be difficult to decide, but I’d enjoy working in the film industry, or something related to biological conservation efforts to save cheetahs and other big cats from extinction.
What are my 3 personal success tips:
- Own it. If you have a goal for yourself, take full responsibility for crafting it and implementing it and being accountable for the journey. Hold yourself to high standards.
- Reframe failure. Not everything will go to plan or be a shining success; realize that failure, challenges, and setbacks are part of the process of success. Learn from experiences to change the outcome the next time you try.
- Find curiosity in everything. Get more information from your experiences and interactions, both in and out of the classroom. Don’t be afraid to ask questions! You might find the answers you get may lead to wonderful opportunities.
