College Coach- First Star ISU Academy

Illinois State•Normal, IL

32d•$20•Onsite

About The Position

The First Star ISU Academy is a college-preparatory program for high school foster youth with the aim of preparing for successful matriculation into 2- or 4-year colleges and universities. The Academy strives to keep youth on track for high school graduation, prepare them for higher education, and equip them with the skills to successfully transition to adulthood. The youth, referred to as Scholars, spend two-weeks living on the university campus (Summer Immersion Program), and they return one Saturday per month during the school year (Saturday Academies). While on campus, the Scholars attend academic classes, participate in life skills workshops, and explore college life. College Coaches play a critical role in the success of the two-week Summer Immersion Program, held on ISU’s campus, from Saturday, May 30, 2026 to Saturday, June 13, 2026. The College Coach serves as a supportive and caring staff member, models appropriate and collegiate behavior, co-facilitates college prep or life skills workshops, tutors the Scholars and encourages successful learning practices. College Coaches are expected to work approximately 28-32 hours per week (this includes weekends) at the rate of $20 per hour. Depending on your shift, this may include eating meals with the Scholars and/or supervising field trips. College Coaches do not reside on campus as housing is not provided. All College Coaches are expected to attend a mandatory three-day paid training scheduled for: Wednesday, May 13, 2026 Thursday, May 14, 2026 Friday, May 15, 2026 College Coaches are also expected to attend the following: Saturday, May 16, 2026 Mandatory Scholar/Caregiver summer orientation Saturday, May 30, 2026 Scholar campus move-in Saturday, June 13, 2026 Scholar move-out/Awards ceremony

Requirements

Completed at least two years of undergraduate education, with at least a 2.5 GPA
Ability to work as a team member with Academy staff, other College Coaches, and campus staff
Responsible, ethical, friendly, enthusiastic, patient and willing to learn
Strong organization and communication skills
Ability to pass a Level 2 background check

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in recreation, a camp setting or other work experience with youth in a group setting, preferred
Preference given to students who have experienced foster care

Responsibilities

Supervise Scholars during all Summer Immersion Program activities, including classroom, recreation, and off-campus activities, and meal and dorm times
Provide academic support and tutoring to Scholars during classes and study halls
Design and participate in select life skills workshops and team-building activities
Ensure compliance with the Academy’s and university’s code of conduct
Prepare for and actively participate in staff training, meetings, and supervisory conferences
Model appropriate behavior for Scholars and others including, productive study habits, cleanliness, punctuality, language choice, and personal representation
Maintain positive relationships with Academy staff, university staff, and the Scholars’ caregivers and social workers