About Pamela Schoessling

Education and Development Consultant | Empowering Coach for Self-Authored Living

With over 20 years guiding students, professionals, and life changers from uncertainty to clarity — through warmth, practical wisdom, and a deep belief in every person’s capacity to thrive.

My Philosophy

Resilience with purpose — and the courage to move forward.

Every person carries untapped potential. They just need the right tools, a listening ear, and someone who genuinely believes in them to expand their vision of what’s possible. When clients connect to their authentic self — gaining clarity on their aspirations and what gives their life meaning — it shifts everything about how they see their present and their future.

“My work isn’t about telling people what to do. It’s about helping them discover who they already are — and building the confidence to act on it.”

Whether you want more positive possibilities, are rethinking a career, or simply figuring out what comes next, my approach blends evidence-based frameworks with the deeper work of self-discovery and building lasting confidence for a brighter future.

Integrated Frameworks

Coaching that goes deeper than goal-setting.

Together, these frameworks turn coaching conversations into a genuine exploration of what energizes you, where your strengths come alive, and what kind of work and life feels truly worth pursuing — from the inside out.

Positive Psychology (PERMA) Seligman’s research-backed map for flourishing — helping you design a life that feeds your whole self, not just your resume.

Self-Determination Theory Understanding the “why” behind motivation — autonomy, competence, and connection — to build the kind of drive that actually sustains change.

SPARcK & The Catalyst Way Know yourself, serve profoundly, find the right pond, and build real momentum — with concrete next steps every session.

Design Thinking for Life Radical empathy, reframing problems, divergent thinking, and low-stakes prototyping — applied to your life and career decisions.

Professional Journey

Every role led here.

Pamela’s path is anything but accidental. Each chapter — parent, teacher, advisor, coach, director, manager — has deepened her understanding of what helps people grow and find their way.

2018 – 2025 | Manager, Retention & Coaching — Technical College, Wisconsin Led and trained a team of academic life coaches serving all students. Active on executive leadership teams for retention and strategic plan implementation.

2016 – 2017 | Success Coaching Consultant — Public Research University, Arizona Helped launch a new coaching center; developed training content for three cohorts of coaches at a large online learning department.

2012 – 2016 | Academic Advisor, Special Populations — University of Wisconsin Proactive success coach for under-resourced students. Designed first-year success courses. Elected co-president of the campus Advising & Counseling Network.

2005 – 2011 | Director of Campus Ministry & Student Affairs — Private College Spiritual direction, service-learning, interim career counseling, orientation, and international student programming.

2000 – 2003 | High School & Middle School Teacher — Catholic Schools, Wisconsin History, math, and religion; organized a community cooperative learning program for high school students.

Education & Credentials

A foundation built on decades of learning.

Formal Degrees

M.A. Education — Experiential learning, student development, and well-being

B.A. Education (Grades 6–12) — Leadership, teaching, and community service

Certifications & Specialized Training

Academic Life Coach, Level 2 — ICF-aligned with demonstrated competencies in active listening and facilitating growth

Life Design Catalyst — Certified coach and facilitator for purpose, meaning, and navigating life, career, and college

Anti-Boring Learning Coach — Research-based study skills and executive function strategies, including for students with ADHD

Coaching for Leaders — Graduate-level coaching skills training for educational administrators and business leaders

Recognition & Memberships

Active in the field — recognized for impact.

Conference presenter at CHEC (2020 and 2024) and NACADA national conferences on coaching, retention, and equity-centered student success. Active on the CHEC Training & Professional Development committee.

⭐ UWM Student Affairs Star Award — 4 consecutive years

⭐ Coaching in Higher Education Consortium (CHEC) — Member 2019–present

⭐ National Academic Advising Association (NACADA) — Member for 10 years

⭐ National Association for Developmental Education (NADE) — National presenter 2014

Ready to Take the First Step?

A single conversation can shift everything. Let’s explore what’s possible for your life, career, or next chapter — together, at no cost.

👉 Book an Introductory Free Call