MCAC Adviser

Job Summary

The Center for Educational Outreach is seeking College Advisers to work with students and families across Michigan. If you are passionate about a commitment to equal access to education and believe in the power of community, we want to hear from you. We are specifically looking for recent graduates for this role. The College Adviser will be based at one of the following schools:

• Battle Creek Central High School, Battle Creek
• Flint Southwestern Classical Academy, Flint
• Pershing High School, Detroit
• Pontiac High School, Pontiac
• River Rouge High School, River Rouge

This program aims to inspire students to explore higher education opportunities, guide them through university admissions and financial aid processes, and support them as they approach graduation. Advisers are required to live near their assigned school and expected to be present on-site at the designated high school during regular school hours (40 hours a week).

This position will run from August 2026 to June 30, 2027. There will be mandatory summer training in Ann Arbor during the month of August. If you start after training has already begun, we are able to get you caught up on any training you may have missed and make sure you have everything you need to be successful in the role. Upon completion of the first year, advisers may have the option to extend their commitment for one additional school year, subject to the discretion of the Michigan College Access Corps (MCAC) program.

Responsibilities*

• Help students complete and submit admissions and financial aid applications (FAFSA).
• Develop a comprehensive college timeline for each student, including application deadlines for admissions and financial aid.
• Assist students in interpreting correspondence from colleges, including offers of admission and financial aid.
• Provide information about high school course selection, test-taking skills, and basic financial planning to prepare students for future education.
• Organize group events that encourage students and their families to consider, plan for, and apply to colleges and universities.
• Work with local community groups and non-profits to offer events outside the school setting and hours.
• Host regular workshops for families to discuss topics such as financial aid, the college planning timeline, the importance of post-secondary education, and other opportunities.
• Establish productive working relationships with principals, counselors, and teachers in the assigned high school.
• Assist the program director and evaluation staff to collect and interpret progress and outcome data to evaluate the effectiveness of the MCAC program.
• Collaborate with the MCAC program director and school personnel to assess school needs and adapt programs and activities to meet these needs.
• Seek advice and counsel from the on-site supervisor at the assigned high school to support the long-term sustainability of the program.
• Participate in weekly staff meetings and professional development sessions throughout the year.

Required Qualifications*

• A Bachelor's degree
• Ability to pass federal and state background screenings.
• Strong planning and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects.
• Experience in manipulating or analyzing data.
• Creativity and initiative in developing new programs.

Desired Qualifications*

• A Bachelor's degree with a graduation date no earlier than May 2024.
• Prior experience in program development or management.
• Experience working with youth, especially those from diverse backgrounds.