Description

Position Overview

The University of Kansas Upward Bound programs are federally funded TRIO programs that works with first-generation and low-income college-bound students (rising 9th - rising 12th graders) in Shawnee, Douglas, Leavenworth and Wyandotte counties with the goal of increasing the rate at which students complete high school and graduate from college. The Upward Bound Non-Bridge Summer Institute is an intensive six-week academic program that gives participants a chance to experience college life while preparing for their upcoming school year. Students share a room in a university residence hall with other participants and interact with instructors and residence hall advisors through taking five academic classes, have support finishing homework with the help of tutors.

Non-Bridge Residential Positions:
3 positions available
Staff Orientation dates are May 28 - May 29, 2026
Anticipated start and end dates are May 28 - July 10, 2026
Residential Component dates are June 7 - July 2, 2026

The Resident Assistant for the Upward Bound Program Non-Bridge Summer Institute will reside in a hall, providing supervision and serving as a role model for around 50-60 high school students participating in the program. Each Resident Assistant oversees a group of 10-15 students but is responsible for the supervision of all students. The role involves residing in the designated hall with Upward Bound students for the entire four-week appointment, maintaining 24-hour residency five days a week. This position reports directly to the Residence Hall Director.

KU is not able to provide H-1B sponsorship for this position.

Job Description

30% Supervision:

• Assist in monitoring students' arrival and technology check-out on Sunday afternoons, as well as departure and technology check-in on Thursday evenings.
• Ensure all participants are awake and prepared for class each morning.
• Transport, lead, and/or accompany students to and from activities.
• Escort students to Watkins Health Center in case of illness.
• Be assigned a specific group of students but maintain overall responsibility for the well-being of all students.
• Supervise students during meals, activities, free time, and other necessary times.

30% Foster Community Development:

• Communicate respectfully and effectively with students, permanent staff, and fellow staff members
• Develop positive and supportive relationships with all students
• Establish an atmosphere that appreciates all student identities, cultures, and beliefs
• Assist in planning, leading, and implementing educational and social activities for students during free time
• Attend and participate in all program sponsored events

15% Policy Enforcement:

• Model and enforce all university, housing, and program policies
• Respond promptly to student issues, conflicts, mediation needs, and crisis situations
• Document all policy violations consistently
• Report any inappropriate student behavior and/or violations to policies to appropriate staff

15% Academic and Social Support:

• Offer individual or group tutoring to enhance comprehension of subject material and facilitate homework completion.
• Foster a community that promotes academic success, such as encouraging study groups and enforcing quiet hours.
• Emphasize the importance of prioritizing academics over social activities.
• Have a comprehensive understanding of university support services and make appropriate referrals when necessary (Bridge Resident Assistant).

10% Administration:

• Ensure timely and thorough completion of all administrative tasks, including but not limited to submitting incident reports, facility service requests, answering emails, and completing medical claims forms.
• Maintain the confidentiality of sensitive student information at all times.
• Read and promptly respond to all communications, staying up-to-date on any changes in schedules.
• Stay aware of facilities' needs and promptly enter Service Requests for any facility-related issues.
• Attend required training before the program and participate in weekly staff meetings as necessary.
• Demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to undertake other duties as assigned.

Position Requirements

This position is on-site at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas. The Resident Assistant is required to maintain 24-hour residency, five days a week (Sunday-Thursday) for four weeks.

Required Qualifications

1. Completed at least one year of college
2. Valid driver's license

Additional Candidate Instruction

A complete application consists of:

1. The University of Kansas online application
2. A Resume or CV
3. A cover letter that describes any relevant experience you have and includes answers to the following questions:
   1. Will you be working for another department or office on the KU campus over the summer?
      1. If so, specify the type of position and the number of hours per week you will be working.
   2. Will you be taking any classes over the summer?
      1. If so, provide a tentative schedule.
4. Contact information for three (3) professional references

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Preference will be given to applications received by March 19, 2026.

All applicants are welcome to request reasonable accommodation for any and all portions of the search process. Please reach out to accessibility@ku.edu to request an accommodation.

Application review begins on Friday, March 20th and will continue until qualified applicants have been identified.

Disclaimer

The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university's programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and procedures and is the Title IX Coordinator for all KU and KUMC campuses: Associate Vice Chancellor for the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX, civilrights@ku.edu, Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-6414, 711 TTY. Reports can be submitted by contacting the Title IX Coordinator as provided herein or using the Title IX online report form and complaints can be submitted with the Title IX Coordinator or using the Title IX online complaint form.