Graduate Program Coordinator Needed for ‘Public Lands in the American West’ Course

The Center for Undergraduate Global Engagement is looking for a graduate program coordinator to assist in managing the hybrid course, Public Lands in the American West. The program runs from May 31 to June 23, and includes one week in Colorado (June 11-18).

The program coordinator works with the program director to manage all aspects of a hybrid course that includes a three-week virtual course plus onsite responsibility during the travel component to Colorado. Program coordinator duties include overseeing student arrivals, orientation programming, supporting student wellness, coordinating field trip logistics, managing student housing issues, enforcing Columbia conduct policies, and serving as the primary contact for student inquiries.

Eligibility:

Candidate must be a current Columbia graduate student, enrolled full-time during the Spring 2022 semester
Must be authorized to work in the United States and complete an I-9 work eligibility process
Must adhere to Columbia COVID-19 vaccination policies

Job Requirements:

Must be available for the entire program duration of May 31-June 23 with the ability to travel to Colorado during the week of June 12-19, 2022 and to support the course virtually during the remaining weeks
Availability during the spring semester to assist with all elements of planning
Preferred background in social science, environmental policy and sustainable development
Preferred experience in the American West (living, working, or traveling)
Foundational physical fitness, especially the ability to hike in high elevation environments
Interest in undergraduate student well-being and academic success

Virtual course component (May 31-June 23, except one week in the field)

Act as teaching assistant during the virtual course, including: building and maintaining the Courseworks site, participating in all class meetings, helping the professor grade assignments, and being available to help students as needed
Other responsibilities as assigned

Fieldwork in Colorado (June 11-18)

Administrative:

Support the planning, managing, and delivery of orientation programming in conjunction with program director during the spring semester
Participate in pre-departure meeting (schedule TBD)
Coordinate and assist with student arrivals. Communicate with the Center for Undergraduate Global Engagement and onsite staff within 24 hours that all students have arrived safely
Organize and assist with program-wide field trips, cultural activities, and group dinners adhering to COVID guidelines. Attend all scheduled program activities.
Fully understand the details of the program itinerary and communicate effectively and consistently with other faculty, students and onsite staff and partners regarding scheduling updates
Understand and communicate clearly to students the academic and disciplinary rules outlined in the Student Participation Agreement
Understand and communicate clearly to students the policies and protocols outlined in the program’s emergency protocols, COVID protocols, and Community Health Compact
Collect student and instructor local contact information to establish a communication plan for regular use and also in emergency situations
Assist with fostering a sense of community among student participants

Housing:

Liaise with the housing rental agent and troubleshoot any housing situations with assistance of program director as they arise
Live with students in primary residence and in any program-sponsored housing on excursions

Students:

Serve as primary point of contact for students who might have questions or require assistance
Assist students in situations involving communications with legal authorities
Remain accessible to students by e-mail and cell phone 24/7 in case of emergencies
Support student wellness and accompany students to seek medical assistance as needed
Meet regularly with program director to discuss/resolve student issues as needed

Remuneration: