Resident Assistant

The Hersey Scholars Program at Harvard University, Boston, MA

Dates: June 18, 2023-July 1, 2023

Compensation: $2,000, plus room and board

The Hersey Scholars Program provides a select group of ten Hotchkiss students a unique opportunity to participate in a two-week residency program at Harvard University conducting primary source archival research in history, politics, cultural studies, economics, and/or philosophy.

Taking place over the course of two weeks each June, the program’s participants live at Harvard University and undertake their work at Harvard’s research libraries, in particular the Houghton. Hersey Scholars spend their mornings researching in the library and their evenings in advising sessions. They continue their summer work in a year-long course when they return to Hotchkiss in the fall.

Position Description:

Hotchkiss School seeks a Resident Assistant to support student scholars in their residential and program needs. The Resident Assistant, supervised by program faculty, will be responsible for the physical and emotional well-being of students in the Hersey Scholars Program at meals, during breaks from scheduled study and activities during the day and evenings, on field trips, as well as overnight in the dormitory. The Resident Assistant plays an important role in creating and maintaining an effective learning environment. The Resident Assistant is expected to create a welcoming, safe, and friendly environment for students, participating willingly and reliably in all areas, and upholding program guidelines for the enjoyment and safety of all students. As an advisor and mentor, the Resident Assistant is expected to conform to the highest standards of personal integrity and professional principles, reflecting a model presence for their duties and care of program students.

The ideal candidate will also be prepared to assist the program faculty in their work with students on their research. Therefore, some background and interest in primary source historical research is preferred.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Participate in orientation prior to program commencement. Orientation includes a review of the program schedule, expectations and program guidelines, as well as safety procedures. The Resident Assistant will be responsible for completing online training before the program commences. This training includes boundary training, required State of CT Department of Children and Families Mandated Reporter Training and Sexual Harassment Prevention Training.
• Assist Program Director with any student arrival and departure needs.
• Counsel, support and guide students as needed.
• Eat communal meals with students.
• Monitor and support evening study.
• Follow guidelines for student check-in in dormitories each evening.
• Identify and communicate with the Program Director, any emergent need that warrants immediate support ensuring student safety and well-being.

• Support other duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Demonstrated investment in primary source historical research.
• Possess a passion for history that can be communicated and supported to students in the program.
• Possess an interest in helping with students’ research and projects.
• Previous experience working with high school students is preferred.

Education and Experience:

• A high school diploma is required.
• Ideal candidates are current college or graduate students.
• A pleasant, friendly attitude and courteous demeanor.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Attention to detail and precision, responsible, and eager to work hard and adapt.

Physical Work Conditions:

• Must have the physical ability to lead and participate in activities and other essential program support which may include a full range of motion and mobility.
• Must live in dormitories and help supervise program participants.
• Must be able to perform a variety of tasks indoors as well as outdoors.
• Must be in residence for the full duration of the program.

The essential functions and basic skills have been included. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate. This position description is subject to change at any time.

The Hotchkiss School is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to basing judgments concerning the employment of individuals upon their qualifications and abilities. The School is firmly committed to equal employment and advancement opportunities for all employees and applicants in all phases of the employment process (including recruitment, hiring, assignment, terms and conditions of employment, compensation, benefits, training, promotion, transfer, discipline and termination).

In accordance with applicable law, the School does not discriminate against any individual based on age, ancestry, color, genetic information, learning disability, marital status, past or present history of mental disability, national origin, physical disability, race, religious creed, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

Application Information:

Through the online application process, located at Hotchkiss.org/careers, interested candidates should submit their résumé, a cover letter, unofficial transcript, and contact information for three references. The School is committed to building and supporting a diverse community where all feel safe, seen, and supported. Successful applicants will address their ability to contribute to a warm, inclusive, and exciting learning environment.