1-on-1 coaching, guided learning and financial
incentives to help first-gen students thrive
UT San Antonio Navigate
What is Navigate?
Navigate is a student success program designed to support first-generation, first-year Roadrunners. Participants connect with a dedicated Success Coach, complete short, practical learning experiences and receive financial incentives tied to engagement milestones. The goal is simple: to help you feel confident, connected and in control of your college journey.
How it works
Coaching
Meet regularly with a Success Coach who helps you set goals, balance school/work/life and access campus resources. Sessions are flexible and tailored to you.
Learning Pathways
Complete brief, interactive activities in three areas — Career and Personal Discovery, Academic Success, and Managing Life — to build skills you can use right away.
Incentives
Earn milestone-based financial incentives for staying engaged (like meeting with your coach or completing pathway activities) and a retention grant when you complete all program requirements (details provided to invited students).
Who is Eligible
- First-generation, full-time undergraduate students in their first year at UT San Antonio
- Students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds (as identified by university data)
- Invitation-only based on eligibility criteria
What's in it for you
Study Smarter
Set goals and develop strategies for academic success
Life Skills
Learn time and stress management methods, financial literacy skills and more
Belonging and Support
Gain a coach in your corner and build a network on campus
Momentum and Recognition
Earn financial incentives that reward steady engagement
Career Exploration
Evaluate your interests, strengths and values to explore professional pathways
Meet your coaches
You'll be paired with a Success Coach who knows your goals and checks in regularly.
Austin Bonecutter-Knight
Make an appointment with AustinAbout Austin
I have experience working with diverse university students and English Language Learners from many backgrounds. While working with ATE, I provided student success support through programs like the Teacher Candidate Customized Plan (TCCP), the Teacher Academy Learning Community Summer Institute (TALC-SI), and others. As a student success coach, I strive to assist first-gen students as they enter into the university so they can reach academic greatness. Outside of work, I love to explore and learn about other languages and cultures, as well as niche communities. I play video games and role-playing games, watch movies and shows, and otherwise enjoy stories.
Gabby Flores
Make an appointment with GabbyAbout Gabby
Hello, Roadrunners! My name is Gabby Flores, and I work as a Success Coach at UT San Antonio. I am a double alum of the university, having earned a BA in Psychology and an MA in Educational Psychology. I have worked on campus as both a student worker and full-time staff member for the past several years, and have much experience with the campus culture. I have always had a passion for supporting students, whether in an academic, professional, or social capacity, and have focused my career around this. I have worked with undergraduate, transfer, and graduate students, and now am circling back to working with the First Time In College population and am greatly looking forward to serving you all to the best of my ability. When I am not working, I am usually going for walks, practicing yoga, fan-girling over K-pop, exploring cute spots throughout town, or relaxing at home with my cat.
Eva Sosoo
Make an appointment with EvaAbout Eva
Hello Roadrunners! I’m Eva, a student success coach at the University of Texas at San Antonio. I have a BA in Political Science and Information Studies and an MA in Educational Administration. Originally from Ghana, West Africa, I have experienced firsthand the positive impact of having the guidance of a success coach as you navigate various academic challenges. I have also worked as a success coach at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Supporting students in any way possible is why I am here and to continue doing that in a meaningful way means a lot to me. I am also a reader of many genres, yet a writer of few. I cannot wait to meet all of you and have engaging, impactful conversations. I hope you leave my office receiving the help and support you came in for.
Sabrina Arismendez
Make an appointment with SabrinaAbout Sabrina
Raised in Kyle, TX, I later moved to San Antonio to attend Our Lady of the Lake University and obtained both my bachelor's in psychology and master's in nonprofit management. I find true fulfillment in assisting students in developing both academically and professionally throughout their educational journey. Outside of work, I love spending time with my husband and our five pets. You’ll often find me exploring local markets, discovering new favorite spots, watching movies, or rewatching my favorite TV shows.
Jochebed Moraa
Make an appointment with JochebedAbout Jochebed
Hey! I'm Jochebed, your Student Success Coach. This semester, I'll be posting course announcements, reviewing submissions, and engaging with students. Before we get started, a bit about me: I was born and raised in Kisii, Kenya. I earned my Bachelor of Education (Arts) degree from the University of Nairobi, a teaching international curricula certification from Riara University, and a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration from the University of Texas at San Antonio. I have worked as a high school teacher, education consultant and graduate assistant with the university's response team. As a success coach, I get to be your personal cheerleader through your college career. Aside from work, catch me hiking, sightseeing, and photographing everything, mostly squirrels.
FAQs
Contact and Next Steps
Email: jesse.lopez@utsa.edu
Office: MS 1.02.06
If you received an invitation, check your UT San Antonio student email for instructions.
About the Grant
Navigate is supported by a U.S. Department of Education student success grant, reflecting UT San Antonio's commitment to closing equity gaps and improving student persistence. Program updates and outcomes will be added here beginning in Spring 2026.
