Program Counselor, College Readiness/Retention Programs

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; Wichita (KS); On-site; USD 18,000 - 19,000; Full time

Job summary

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc. is seeking a full-time position to coordinate the TRIO Talent Search program at Wichita, KS - WSU Main Campus. This role focuses on identifying and recruiting students for the program, providing guidance on college admissions and financial aid, and facilitating workshops.

Qualified candidates should possess a bachelor’s degree in education or related fields and have strong communication skills. Knowledge of federal financial aid is essential to effectively assist students in their education journey.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of federal financial aid programs and scholarships.
• Familiarity with working with student populations.
• Strong public speaking skills.

Responsibilities

• Recruit eligible students for program activities.
• Support students in college admissions and financial aid processes.
• Facilitate study sessions and workshops.

Skills

Financial literacy

Communication skills

Bilingual English/Spanish proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s degree in education, social science, psychology or related field

Job description

Position Details

• Department: TRIO Talent Search
• Campus Location: Wichita, KS - WSU Main Campus
• Hire Type: Full Time
• Pay: $18.00 - $19.06 based on experience
• Work Schedule: Mon-Fri, 8a-5p
• Export Compliance Requirement: No export control requirement.

Job Summary

Coordinates program participation which includes, but is not limited to, identifying program participants, facilitating program application, and providing counseling and advising services.

Essential Functions

• Identifies, recruits and selects new program participants. Facilitates the application process by assisting with application completion and coordinating the application selection committee.
• Meets on a routine basis with program students to review academic progress and graduate school preparation.
• Facilitates education to program participants on a variety of topics which assist with graduate school preparation.
• Assists in the development and administration of program evaluation tools. Collects and supplies evaluation data necessary for grant submission.
• Coordinates program communication to inform and educate the campus community and community at-large of program events and activities.

Job Duties

• Recruitment of eligible students, including identifying and selecting students for relevant program services and activities.
• Educate and support students on the college admissions and financial aid process to enhance students’ chances of entering a postsecondary institution.
• Facilitate individual and group study sessions and conduct and/or present ACT, financial aid, and career workshops for students and their parents.
• Collaborate with public school personnel and establish relationships with community agencies to identify students for program participation and to develop a plan of supporting services for students.
• Assist program staff and may teach one course during the Middle School Summer Enrichment Program for twenty-five (25) middle school students.
• Arrange and accompany students on field trips, college campus visits, and other related activities.

Desired Attributes

• Connect easily with youth across diverse backgrounds
• Know how to balance encouragement with structure
• Can pivot quickly when student needs shift (because they will)
• Organized enough to manage data while staying fully present with students
• Understand referral networks and aren’t afraid to collaborate
• Believe that mentorship can literally change a life trajectory
• You are intentional, strategic, and consistent

Required Education and Experience

• Qualifications for this position are strictly defined by the approved grant proposal. See the education qualifications in the Additional Information section below.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of financial literacy, federal financial aid programs, and scholarships.
• Familiarity with working with student populations and/or similar educational opportunity programs.
• Strong communication skills, including presentations and/or public speaking.
• Understanding of problems faced by low income and potential first‑generation college students.
• Competent with basic computer systems and software applications.
• Bilingual English/Spanish proficiency preferred.

Additional Information

• A bachelor’s degree in education, social science, psychology, or related field.
• One (1) year experience providing social services to and working with eligible participants.
• One (1) year experience in providing personal and/or career counseling.
• The chosen candidate is expected to maintain membership in TRIO professional associations, write articles for the quarterly newsletter, and travel to local, regional, and national training seminars and conferences.

Physical Requirements

Ability to remain in a stationary position. Frequent 60-90%.

Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment including but not limited to phone, printers, copiers, and calculators. Frequent 60-90%.

Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information. Frequent 60-90%.

Ability to travel in a vehicle for distances including but not limited to across city, county, and state. Rare 0-30%.