Residential mentors serve as live-in leaders, tutors, advisors, educators, and role models to fifty Upward Bound students attending an intensive summer program on Castleton’s campus.
Upward Bound is a federally funded college preparation program designed to encourage students to develop the academic skills and motivation necessary for success in post-secondary education. The program focuses on providing equal opportunity for students who would be the first in their respective families to obtain a college degree but because of income level or other disadvantages may not continue their education. Upward Bound serves students in grades 9-12.
To create an open living/learning environment for Upward Bound students where all feel welcomed and valued, and to challenge the students to learn, share, question, and grow while enforcing program policies to student participants.
Applicants must have a high energy level and be able to communicate effectively with 9th-12th grade students. Must have completed one year of college and be in good academic standing to apply. Position requires a positive attitude and the ability to work effectively with and display sensitivity toward a wide range of ethnic, socioeconomic, cultural, and life-style differences among staff and student participants. Residential living and/or student leadership experience required, along with administrative planning and organizational skills. Special consideration will be given to former students of Upward Bound. A valid driver’s license is preferred for the occasional transportation of students.
Seven weeks during the summer which includes one week of staff training. Dates are set for June 21, 2015-July 31, 2015. Staff will have weekends off beginning early evenings on Fridays and ending Sunday afternoon. Mentors are expected to be 100% accessible throughout the week. For this reason, mentors should not be enrolled in summer classes or have outside employment. Actual student interaction and assigned tasks begin at approximately 7:00 a.m. and end at 11:00 p.m., with a number of breaks and segments of free time.
Mentors will be provided with private room and meal plan for seven weeks (excluding meals on weekends), paid admission to all events and field trips, plus a salary starting at $2000, for a total compensation package of approximately $3400.
View Upward Bound Summer Residential Mentor Application as PDF.