Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
The Chancellor’s Science Scholars Program offers merit-based scholarships, opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research, professional development, leadership training, mentorship, and other programming designed to pave the way for academic success and future achievement. Along the way, students join a community of scholars committed not only to individual excellence, but also to challenging preconceptions of the scientist archetype and creating a more inclusive culture within the STEM academy. Hands-on experience in Carolina’s cutting-edge research labs prepares scholars to tackle the grand challenges of today – and tomorrow. The CSS Program is modeled after the nationally-recognized Meyerhoff Scholars Program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. In partnership with UMBC and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, CSS was one of the first programs in the nation to adapt the successful Meyerhoff model to a preeminent research university, demonstrating the value of building community, mentoring, and instilling high expectations of scholars. Together, CSS scholars are prepared to move into Ph.D. and M.D./Ph.D. programs after graduation and become part of the next generation of leaders in science and technology.
Position Summary
The Resident Program Assistant (RPA) for the Chancellor’s Science Scholars (CSS) program assists in the development of a positive, academically challenging, and constructive Summer EXCELerator program for the most recent cohort of CSS. The RPA is to develop relationships with the residents to foster a positive, collaborative, and engaging experience for incoming Carolina students. The RPA will live in the residence hall throughout the summer program and carry out the mission of the CSS program in general and the Summer EXCELerator Program specifically. The RPA serves as an on-call individual for the summer residents throughout campus and helps ensure their wellbeing. RPA works under the direction of the Program Coordinators and Executive Director and helps organize and facilitate leadership, social, recreational, multicultural, and stress relief activities for Scholars on a weekly basis, helps maintain the expectations of the program, and performs other duties as assigned. The RPA will participate in a training program before the second summer session begins. In addition to hourly rate, compensation includes single occupancy, air-conditioned room on campus and summer meal plan. A stipend will be given based on experience and qualifications. Specific duties include: -Provide support for residents in their Summer EXCELerator living and learning experience. -Encourage student involvement and leadership development. -Role model commitment to outstanding academic performance, research careers, graduate education, and diversity in STEM. -Create educational, social, recreational, and stress relief programs in conjunction with Program Coordinators. -Foster a constructive, safe, and inclusive environment in the residence hall and classroom. -Use the program values and framework to solve problems that may arise within the cohort. -Fully understand and adhere to CSS Summer EXCELerator policies, procedures, and methods. -Assist with special projects and duties in conjunction with the Program Coordinators. -Create bulletin boards and decorations in the residence hall that reflect the program mission, values, and goals. -Provide supervision in residence hall during nights and weekends. -Escort students to daily/weekly classes and programs as well as irregular appointments and errands, as necessary. -Join the students for lunch and dinner, aside from scheduled time off. -Supervise students on field trips on and off campus. -Provide the primary point of contact for student issues and concerns. Interact with parents and instructors/TAs as necessary. -Participate in trainings with the students. -Assist in academic support programs as appropriate. -Work as a team with other RPAs and Program Coordinator. Typical job duties period is daytime, nights, and weekends.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
High school diploma or equivalency; or demonstrated possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work.
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Prior residence life or student leadership is preferred. First Aid certification is preferred.
Must be a recent UNC-CH graduate OR at least a rising junior at UNC-CH (All majors will be considered, but interest/experience in math, science, education, counseling, or student affairs is preferred). Prior experience with Chancellor’s Science Scholars Program is required.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities
Not Applicable.