Alyssa Coats

Assistant Director of Academic Advising and Retention

Alyssa Coats leads first-year advising initiatives at East Texas A&M University, with a focus on Program for System Admission (PSA) and first-year business students. She brings over 13 years of experience in academic advising and student success, having held leadership roles at Texas Tech University, Bossier Parish Community College, and SOWELA Technical Community College.

Originally from Texas, Coats earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in Business and is currently pursuing her Ed.D. in Educational Practice & Leadership. She is an active member of NACADA and has contributed to regional advising leadership and professional development. Outside of work, she enjoys concerts, road trips, and spending time with her family, friends, and dogs.

A Conversation with Alyssa

How do you help students in your current role?

I support first-year students by helping them transition into college with confidence. Whether it's building their class schedule, answering questions, or connecting them with campus resources, I work to make sure they feel supported every step of the way. My goal is to be a reliable guide and cheerleader as they navigate their first year.

What do you like most about your career?

I enjoy helping students find their footing and feel more confident as they begin their college journey. Being part of those “aha” moments, when things start to click, or they realize their potential, is incredibly rewarding. Watching them grow and knowing I played a small part in their success makes this work truly meaningful.

If you weren't an academic advisor, what would you be doing?

I've had all kinds of dreams over the years. I wanted to be a storm chaser, a veterinarian, and even a photographer. I've always been curious and drawn to careers that involve discovery, creativity, or helping others. While my path led me to advising, those early dreams still reflect the things I'm passionate about today.

What is your favorite thing about East Texas A&M?

The sense of community. Everyone here truly wants to see each other succeed. It's a place where people are supportive, welcoming, and committed to making a difference. And I'm proud to be part of that.

Education

• Ed.D. in Educational Practice and Leadership, University of North Dakota, (In Progress)
• M.B.A., Business Administration, Wayland Baptist University, 2015
• B.B.A., Business Administration, Lubbock Christian University, 2011
• A.A., General Studies, South Plains College, 2020

Experience

• Director of Student Success & Retention, Bossier Parish Community College, 2023-2025
• Director of Academic Advising, SOWELA Technical Community College, 2021-2025

• Assistant Director of Student Services – University Studies, Texas Tech University, 2018-2021
• Senior Academic Advisor – University Studies, Texas Tech University, 2016-2018
• Financial Advisor, Wayland Baptist University – Lubbock Campus, 2011-2016

Professional Organizations

• NACADA: The Global Community for Academic Advising
• TEXAAN: Texas Academic Advising Network
• TACUSPA: Texas Association of College & University Student Personnel Administrators
• AACRAO: American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers