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Hayes Coaching Cohort Student Experience

The Center for Working Well’s Hayes Leadership Coaching Institute (Hayes LCI) offers a signature student experience designed to help emerging leaders grow with intention and confidence. Through executive coaching, students get personalized support to sharpen how they show up, communicate, and lead in real situations. This program is one of the first of its kind at the undergraduate level, at Purdue and beyond, and is offered at no cost to students thanks to generous support from alumni and partners.

What is executive coaching?

Executive coaching is a partnership between a trained International Coaching Federation certified coach and a student that guides awareness, professional growth, and leadership development. Coaches ask thought-provoking questions, listen deeply, and help students set goals, reflect on real experiences, and build practical skills that will serve them in careers and teams.

As a student, what are the benefits of executive coaching?

Executive coaching is especially powerful at key transition points — and college is one of the biggest ones. Students use coaching to gain clarity, build confidence, and navigate real-time challenges in academics, internships, leadership roles, and personal growth.

What can students talk about in coaching?

Anything related to leadership, growth, and professional development. Common topics include:

  • Career exploration and decision-making
  • Confidence and imposter feelings
  • Internship preparation and performance
  • Communication and feedback skills
  • Managing stress and competing priorities
  • Leading teams and navigating conflict
  • Defining personal values and leadership identity

What students receive:

  • 5 individual coaching sessions
  • 2 small group coaching sessions (8-9 students per group)
  • Access to the Center for Working Well speaker events
  • Access to Hayes LCI workshops
  • No cost to participate

Coaching provides a confidential, judgment-free space to reflect, set goals, and move forward with clarity.

Program details and key dates:

  • Cohort size
    • 25 students
  • Cost to students
    • Free
  • Required participation
    • Approximately 9 hours per semester
  • Fall 2026 Application process and timeline
    • Each student will be required to complete an application
    • Application period is March 23 – April 6
    • Decisions will be announced around April 15