The goal of the VISTA College and Career Access Coordinator is to increase the Kitty Andersen Youth Science Center’s capacity to provide college and career exploration, planning, and action programming for our youth (middle and high school students). Though youth from all backgrounds are told of the importance of attending college, youth of color are disproportionately underrepresented in higher education. They are even more poorly represented in STEM higher education programs. The VISTA member will work closely with program staff to assess the needs of the youth within the context of the program goals and then develop a set of workshops and activities that prepare youth for college and career success. The VISTA member will develop and manage relationships with individuals in the KAYSC alumni network as well as local college, university, business and community organizations to support this college and career prep programming.
KAYSC youth are primarily students of color, students from low-income families, and girls, who are working with their peers in crews of eight to twelve members facilitated by an adult crew manager. Youth are identified and acknowledged as paid or unpaid staff at the museum and they are supported by the institution accordingly. The vast majority of the youth live in St. Paul and attend St. Paul Public Schools, though some youth live in Minneapolis and surrounding, inner-ring suburbs. All crews meet the KAYSC’s 3 C’s program goals.
- Content: each youth develops specific STEM skills and abilities depending on his/her crew’s STEM focus.
- Community: youth on each crew use their STEM skills and abilities to make positive contributions to their communities.
- Career: all youth are provided with support to plan for their future as scientifically literate citizens. Youth are exposed to STEM careers through field trips and visits from STEM professionals.
Requirements:
Must be 18 years old; have educational or work experience in STEM and/ or youth development fields; must be U.S. Citizen or U.S. National or have status as a Lawful Permanent Resident; have the capability of taking on leadership opportunities and role-modeling leadership qualities for youth.
Pay:
Unpaid. All members receive a living allowance (approximately $450 bi-weekly), an educational award of $5550.00 (upon successful completion), health and dental insurance plan including reimbursement of deductible charge, child care (d.o.q) and ongoing training.
Send resume and cover letter to Robby Callahan Schreiber (Manager, Alumni & Internships Program). rschreiber {at} smm(.)org
