Position Introduction:

Precollegiate Programs is seeking 10 Summer Camp Counselors. At the University of Oklahoma, we foster an inclusive culture of respect, belonging, and access. We believe that diverse perspectives and experiences enrich our learning environment and help us inspire the next generation of students. As a Summer Program Counselor, you will play a crucial role in creating an engaging, supportive, and safe environment for students while gaining valuable leadership and mentorship experience.

Who We Are:

Precollegiate Programs at the University of Oklahoma are committed to creating meaningful and transformative experiences that inspire students to see higher education as a part of their future. Our summer programs introduce elementary, middle, and high school students to the college experience through immersive, hands-on learning opportunities.

Our summer programming includes Mini College, YES Camp, Sooner Works Summer Academy, and ROOT4NANO, each designed to introduce students to academic fields through engaging activities led by OU faculty and staff.

As a Summer Program Counselor, you will play a vital role in shaping these experiences. You will serve as a mentor, guide, and support system, ensuring that every student feels welcomed, engaged, and encouraged. Whether assisting in classrooms, supporting residential programs, or supervising students during lunch and recreational activities such as pool visits, counselors are often the first connection students have to campus life.

Job Responsibilities:

Mentorship & Leadership:

• Lead and mentor students, providing guidance and support as they navigate daily activities.

Campus Navigation:

• Assist students in transitioning between program activities, including classroom sessions, meals, recreational events, and
  residence hall routines.

Engagement & Activities:

• Facilitate interactive activities, group discussions, and team-building exercises to foster learning and confidence.

Classroom Support:

• Assist faculty and instructional teams with classroom sessions, hands-on projects, and student engagement.

Residential Supervision:

• Monitor and support overnight students in residence halls, enforcing quiet hours, ensuring safety, and assisting with any needs.

Lunch & Recreation Supervision:

• Supervise students during lunch periods, outdoor recreation, and scheduled pool visits while ensuring student safety and positive engagement.

Behavior & Expectations:

• Set clear expectations for student behavior and responsibility, fostering independence and personal growth.

Adaptability:

• Adjust communication and leadership styles to effectively engage with students of varying ages and backgrounds.

Program Operations:

• Assist with student check-in, attendance tracking, and logistics to ensure seamless day-to-day operations.

Problem-Solving:

• Quickly address and resolve student concerns or unexpected schedule changes.

Training & Preparation:

• Complete required training before the program begins, focusing on safety procedures, mentorship strategies, and
  program logistics.

Communication:

• Maintain clear and professional communication with students, fellow counselors, and program staff.

Required Education:

High school diploma or GED

Required Experience:

Previous experience working with youth (ages 6-18) in an educational, mentorship, or recreational setting. Per OU's Minors on Campus policy, all counselors must be 18 or older.

Skills:

• Strong leadership and mentorship abilities
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team
• Flexibility to adapt to changing schedules and student needs
• Ability to participate in recreational activities

Additional information:

• Work Type: Onsite, temporary position during summer camp sessions.
• Training: Attendance at a paid training workshop is required prior to the start of camp.
• On-Call Availability: Must be available during camp operating hours, including potential overnight shifts.
• Compensation: Counselors are paid $15.00 per hour and will be compensated for required training and scheduled program hours.

Department Preferences:

• College coursework completed in Education, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics), Fine Arts, Architecture, Journalism, Humanities, and/or Meteorology.
• Familiarity with OU residence hall policies and procedures.
• At least 1 year of experience working with students that have intellectual and developmental disabilities.