SUMMARY:
- The Peer Assistant is responsible for the smooth implementation of tasks associated with the mission of Upward Bound, i.e., to motivate and prepare selected high school students to experience success in high school and higher education until graduation.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following.
- Assist with the supervision of student participants, including inside/outdoors on field trips as well as during physical recreation;
- Assist with the implementation of tutorial sessions and provide learning strategies to assist student participants toward increased retention of knowledge and improving grades;
- Assist student participants with the development of academic resumes and effective essays for college applications;
- Assist with the compilation of reports and must maintain accurate records;
- Assist the Director and Upward Bound Staff as assigned with implementing program activities;
- Other duties as assigned related to daily operations as well as special projects.
EDUCATION:
- Must be enrolled at an accredited college or university, possessing a minimum C+ average.
- Must major in the field in which they are providing tutoring assistance (if applicable).
EXPERIENCE:
- Previous work experience in a position of responsibility
- Evidence of having succeeded in overcoming barriers similar to those confronting the project’s target population (low-income and/or potential first-generation college students).
- Experience assisting secondary students to persist to graduation.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively with and support one’s supervisor, faculty, and staff as a team player;
- Demonstrated ability to motivate and inspire youth to achieve their highest academic potential;
- Work well with parents as well university/high school instructors;
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends;
- Excellent written, interpersonal, presentational, and organizational skills;
- Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and Publisher;
- Professional demeanor, appearance, and strong work ethic;
- Ability to manage multiple complex projects;
- Have reliable transportation;
- Alumni of the Upward Bound program (preferred);
- Ability to read, write, and speak Spanish (preferred).
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- Working conditions are in an office environment and university campus setting. Must be able to move across the university campus to conduct day-to-day business.
- While performing this role, the employee will be regularly required to sit, walk, and stand; talk and hear, both in person and by telephone; and use hands repetitively to operate standard office equipment; and occasionally required to lift up to 25 pounds.
- Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
- Frequently communicates with others using approved technological resources; must be able to exchange accurate information through designated systems within a timely manner.
- Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
St. Mary’s University is a Hispanic-Serving Institution and an Equal Opportunity Employer. The University is committed to furthering diversity, equity, and inclusion and encourages all qualified candidates apply.