Institutional Mission:
SFS creates transformative study abroad experiences through field-based learning and research. Our educational programs explore the human and ecological dimensions of the complex environmental problems faced by our local partners, contributing to sustainable solutions in the places where we live and work. The SFS community is part of a growing network of individuals and institutions committed to environmental stewardship.
Student Affairs Assistant
The primary function of this internship is to assist the Student Affairs Manager (SAM) with all aspects of student affairs, daily life in the program, community outreach, safety & risk management.
In addition to the above specialty, the intern will provide support to the faculty in field exercises and research, and to the local Program Manager in program operations and logistics.
Location
Bhutan, Eastern Himalayas
Duration
This internship is for seven weeks during Summer 2013, June through mid-July, with several days for training at SFS head office prior to departure.
Reports to
Student Affairs Manager
Day-to-day supervision may be delegated to the Program Director or faculty.
Responsibilities:
Student Affairs
- May accompany the student group on group flights to Bhutan from U.S.
- Participate in the orientation and re-entry components of the program presented to students at the beginning and end of each program period
- Assist the SAM with managing group dynamics
- Monitor student morale and assist in solving daily problems during the program
- Provide back-up first aid care in cooperation with or in the absence of the SAM
- Provide logistical and group management support on backcountry trek
- Help organize students to perform their required tasks in support of the residential aspects of program, e.g., site clean-up, student committees, etc.
Basic Program Support
- Assist with administrative or logistical tasks such as purchasing, equipment inventories, record keeping, and routine maintenance of site and equipment as requested
- Participate in planning activities prior to the program start and in review following students' departure
- Assist in organizing teaching aids, research materials, community service projects, recreational activities, and other program activities as requested
- Provide field assistance to faculty by organizing field equipment and accompanying field groups
- Live on-site for the duration of the program and take meals with the students and staff
- On a rotating basis, take responsibility for program-specific "staff of the day" duties
- At all times, work to ensure good relations between the program and local community
Safety & Risk Management
- Adhere to, actively model, and enforce all SFS and program policies, procedures, and rules
- Participate in the review and revision of program Risk Management Plans (RMP)
- Know the emergency procedures plans for the program, including evacuation plans
- Report infractions of program rules to the SAM
- Assist the SAM in documenting safety procedures
Qualifications
- B.A./B.S. in field related to environmental studies, or Himalayan studies
- Advanced medical certification - Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification required
- High degree of cultural sensitivity and diplomacy
- Experience organizing and facilitating student groups
- Demonstrated ability to work as a team member and independently
- Willingness to work flexible hours and live on-site at the program with a small team of staff and groups of US undergraduate students
Preferred Qualifications
- Successful completion of an SFS or similar international residential program
- Outdoor education or backcountry trip leadership
- In-country or regional experience
Compensation/Benefits
- Airfare, on-site room and board
- Health insurance reimbursement (up to a cap)
- Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation insurance coverage
- Reimbursement for expenses related to obtaining any required visas
Please submit a cover letter and your resume online.