Job Summary

The U-M Center for Educational Outreach (CEO) is seeking motivated and qualified candidates to serve as GEAR UP Guides, advancing the University of Michigan’s commitment to educational outreach and academic excellence.

GEAR UP Guides are undergraduate student mentors who support high school seniors as they prepare for life after graduation. In this role, you will work with students in a 2:1 coaching model, offering guidance on the college application process, exploring post-high school pathways (including careers, apprenticeships, and further education), and developing essential life skills such as budgeting, time management, and maintaining balance.

A resume and class schedule are required for consideration for this position. Up to ten positions are available. If selected and extended an offer, you are committed to attending fall training on Sunday, October 12, 2025.

Expectations

GEAR UP Guides will work with students throughout the fall and winter semesters of the 2025-2026 school year. Additionally, Guides will be required to participate in at least two
off-campus experiences per term, taking on roles such as near-peer coaches, student panelists, and/or other responsibilities as needed. This role requires occasional travel to our GEAR UP partner high schools in Detroit, Southfield, and River Rouge. You may also be asked to work some weekends and occasional evening hours to support campus visits or special CEO/GEAR UP events. Support with travel as needed is available.

Compensation

GEAR UP Guides will be paid $18 per hour and are eligible for raises based on performance after two full semesters worked. Contact person for this job is Da Jaunteye’ Cooper (dhawkin@umich.edu)

• Serve as a liaison, spokesperson and well-rounded representative of the CEO/GEAR UP.
• Provide 2:1 coaching to high school seniors on college applications, scholarships, and post-graduation pathways. This coaching can take place in-person and/or virtually.
• Participate in at least two off-campus experiences per term, taking on roles such as near-peer coaches, student panelists, and/or other responsibilities as needed.
• Attend the fall training date on Sunday, October 12, 2025.
• Attend monthly virtual GEAR UP Guide meetings on Fridays from 10:00-11:00 am.
• Assist scholars in developing essential life skills, such as budgeting, goal setting, and time management.
• Guide scholars through the decision-making process related to their futures, offering practical advice and emotional support.
• Foster a supportive and motivating environment to help scholars build confidence in their post-high school plans.

• Prior experience in educational outreach is a plus
• Previous experience with college application review, career planning, or life skills coaching is a plus
• Involvement in U-M clubs and student organizations
• The ability and willingness to speak positively and authentically about your U-M experience
• Excellent verbal communication skills, including strong listening skills
• Strong time-management and organizational skills
• Demonstrate a willingness to learn

• Must be currently enrolled at the University of Michigan
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75
• Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills
• Passionate about mentoring, education, and helping others succeed