Activity Leader, Manhattan University, NY

International Study and Vacation; New York (NY); On-site; USD 22,295 - 25,480; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Weekly salary of $490 to $560

Free on-campus housing

All meals covered

$15 meal stipend on excursion days

Free transport for excursions

12 days on, 2 days off schedule

Job summary

An educational travel organization in New York is seeking enthusiastic mentors for their Summer 2026 program. As a mentor, you will help international high school students discover American culture and improve their English. You will be based on campus, leading city excursions, supervising activities, and providing support throughout their stay. Ideal candidates are 18+, US citizens, and possess excellent communication skills. The role offers a competitive salary and free accommodation.

Qualifications

• Must be a US citizen, 18+ years old.
• Availability for all program session dates is required.
• Ideal candidate based in New York or New Jersey.

Responsibilities

• Assist with center preparation and student arrivals or departures.
• Lead students on excursions, providing guidance.
• Run and supervise campus activities and events.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Organizational skills

Leadership with enthusiasm

Problem-solving

Team collaboration

Adaptability

Conflict resolution

Job description

Overview

Join International Study & Vacation (isvusa.com) for Summer 2026 and help international high school students discover American culture while improving their English. Based at Manhattan University, Riverdale, you'll live on campus, lead excursions, run evening activities, and serve as a mentor for students aged 13 to 21 (primarily Italian). You report to the Activity Manager on site. The campus is located in a quiet residential neighborhood in northern Manhattan, with a subway stop on campus for easy access to all of NYC. You'll enjoy a modern sports center, green campus spaces, and air-conditioned dorm rooms.

Available Sessions

• Session 1: Jun 11 to Jun 29

• Session 2: Jun 18 to Jul 6

• Session 3: Jun 25 to Jul 13

• Session 4: Jul 2 to Jul 20

• Session 5: Jul 9 to Jul 27

• Session 6: Jul 16 to Aug 3

• Session 7: Jul 23 to Aug 10

Excursions You'll Lead

• 12 guided city excursions with MetroCard included, featuring:

• Central Park and Roosevelt Island

• Wall Street and Financial District

• Rockefeller Center and Times Square

• Little Island and Highline Park

• Greenwich Village, Little Italy, and Chinatown

• Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Coney Island, and 5th Avenue

• Included admissions: MoMA, Empire State Building, The Edge, and American Museum of Natural History

• 5 lunches and 5 dinners in the city included

Campus Evening Activities

• Themed disco parties, karaoke nights, and Prom Night

• Sports events, arts and crafts, and weekly American BBQ

Your Responsibilities

• Assist with center preparation and student arrivals or departures

• Accompany students on full-day and half-day excursions, leading local tours

• Set up, run, and supervise planned campus activities and evening events

• Socialize and build genuine rapport with students and group leaders

• Provide support, guidance, and motivation to students throughout their stay

• Encourage students to speak English and participate in all activities

• Supervise students during meals, lesson breaks, and in residential halls

• Commit to the welfare, safety, and security of students at all times

Requirements

• US citizen, 18 years of age or older

• Valid bank account, able to complete I-9 and W-4 forms

• Availability covering all program session dates

• Ideally based in New York or New Jersey

• Responsible for own travel to and from campus for move-in and move-out

What We're Looking For

• Excellent communication and organizational skills

• Confident leading groups with enthusiasm and warmth

• Creative thinker who can problem-solve on the spot

• Team player prepared to collaborate and contribute ideas

• Adaptable and flexible, no two days are the same

• Strong conflict resolution skills and calm under pressure

Desired but not required

• Previous experience as a camp counselor or working with teenagers

• Sports coaching or PE qualifications

• First Aid or CPR certification

• Second language skills

Benefits

• Weekly salary: $490 to $560 depending on experience

• Free on-campus housing for the full duration of your contract

• All campus meals covered, "all you can eat" dining

• $15 meal stipend on excursion days when meals aren't provided

• Free transport provided for all excursions

• Schedule: 12 days on, 2 days off (live-in role)