Talent Search Advisor/Mentor

LULAC National Educational Service Centers, Inc. (LNESC) -- a national non-profit organization – was established in 1973 to implement education and leadership programs that narrow the opportunity gap for America's Latino youth. LNESC was founded by the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), the country's oldest and largest Hispanic membership organization. In the early 1970s, LNESC attained its own separately incorporated 501(c)(3) status and began developing community-based programs to increase the educational attainment of economically disadvantaged students. For over forty years, LNESC has focused on creating and implementing an array of developmentally appropriate educational initiatives and assisting members of the Hispanic/Latino community to become lifelong learners and leaders. LNESC has expanded to 16 centers throughout the United States and Puerto Rico.

Program Summary

LULAC National Educational Service Centers (LNESC) seeks a full-time, grant-funded Educational Advisor and Peer Mentor to work with the LNESC Austin Project Director and Staff to support academic and mentoring in one-on-one interactions and small group meetings. Educational Advisors are knowledgeable guides to students who participate in the LNESC Austin Talent Search Program.

Talent Search began in 1965 and is one of the Federal TRiO programs. The program assists junior and high school students from disadvantaged backgrounds with the potential to complete secondary education and succeed in higher education. It is designed to motivate and support students by offering an array of educational and cultural opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Recruit, identify, and select participants according to the TRiO Talent Search guidelines.
• Coordinate and implement academic, financial literacy, and personal development workshops, activities, and events designed to promote participants’ academic achievement, college readiness, and career success.
• Manage a caseload of 300+ students; complete and organize required program documents and data for each student.
• Attend group meetings (in-person and virtual)
• Provide assistance, support, and resources for students transitioning to higher education
• Monitor students’ academic progress and career planning,
• Support and communicate with parents over the phone, Zoom, and in person on the student’s progress
• Demonstrate the ability to collaborate with schools, community agencies and leaders, and other organizations to enhance program services and participant outcomes
• Serve as a positive role model, both at school sites and within the community
• Ability to participate in the maintenance of the project’s web and social media pages
• Perform related duties as needed

Qualifications

• College preferred. Be in good academic and student conduct standing
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Strong organizational and follow-through skills
• Demonstrate leadership potential
• Basic knowledge of academic programs, including curricula and admission requirements at higher education institutions.
• Able to work with diverse populations
• Proven ability to handle confidential and sensitive student information
• Familiarity with Google Software
• Reliable transportation and valid driver’s license
• Must be able to pass the Department of Texas & FBI background check
• Must be flexible and reliable
• Bilingual Spanish/English preferred

Benefits

• Build healthy mentoring relationships with new students
• Meet professionals in academic and corporate environments
• Potential for growth within the LNESC family
• Employee health benefits and perks

Bilingual Spanish/English preferred