Student Program Assistant (Peer Mentoring Focus)
Department: Office of Global Engagement & Innovation - Education Abroad
Compensation: $16.30 per hour (Federal Work-Study students encouraged)
Hours: 10-19 hours per week, primarily Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Location: On-campus, Karl Miller Center, 6th floor (in-person required; occasional remote work as requested)
Position Summary
The Education Abroad Office seeks an approachable and empathetic student to serve as the primary point of contact for prospective study abroad participants. This role is dedicated to helping students navigate the "overwhelming" initial stages of choosing a program. You will blend personal international experience with professional advising techniques to support a diverse student body, including the 40% of participants who are Pell Grant recipients.
Core Engagement & Drop-In Responsibilities
- Lead Drop-In Advising Sessions: Conduct first-come, first-served sessions both in-person and online.
- Manage Hybrid Workflows: Simultaneously monitor VikingsAbroad (TerraDotta) portal, Gchat, and physical front-desk queues while maintaining a professional "Micro-Workflow".
- Utilize Professional Scripts: Master the "Greeting Script" to set expectations regarding wait times and session limits to ensure all students are helped efficiently.
- Provide Peer Mentoring: Serve as a relatable liaison, sharing insights on navigating different cultures and overcoming the uncertainty of international travel.
- Lead General Informational Sessions: Present foundational information sessions and orientations to help students explore program options and scholarship resources that fit their needs and goals.
Outreach & Administrative Support
- Support students in the application and enrollment process via VikingsAbroad (TerraDotta).
- Classroom & Event Outreach: Use public speaking skills to lead presentations and represent the office at the annual Fall Fair during International Education Week (IEW).
- Data & File Management: Assist with application processing, enrollment tracking, and maintain accurate records in the Ed Abroad Events Database.
- Promotional Collaboration: Support marketing efforts by creating digital and print materials (using Canva Pro), and utilizing platforms such as Emma, Drupal/Syndication, PSU Connect.
- Assist in managing the Ed Abroad general email inbox.
Required Qualifications
- Current full-time PSU student in good academic standing.
- Exceptional communication and public speaking skills.
- Strong empathy and approachability, with a commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all students.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism regarding sensitive student information.
- Availability for mandatory training.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous participation in a PSU-approved education abroad program, or other study abroad program (including international students with global experience).
- Experience in customer service, peer mentoring, or leading presentations for new hires or students.
- Familiarity with VikingsAbroad (TerraDotta), Google Suite, and project management apps (Slack, Asana, Trello, etc.).
- Interest in a career in higher education, student services, or international affairs.
Professional Development Benefits
- Gain hands-on experience in academic advising and program coordination.
- Develop intercultural communication skills by working with a diverse, global-minded team.
- Opportunity to earn internship credit under the supervision of the Director of International Faculty-Led and Custom Programs.
Online Application & Hiring Timeline
The application for the 2026-27 academic year will close on June 1st, 2026. To apply, please complete and submit the online application.
We will review applications in early June and will be in touch by mid-to-late June.
Questions? Please email edabroad@pdx.edu