Pathfinder Application
Jump Start Scholars Mission:
The Jump Start Scholars Program is designed to build connections with peers, faculty, and staff for incoming students needing academic and financial support. The program is led by peer educators (whom we call Pathfinders) and maintains support throughout the fall semester as students enroll in a Jump Start Scholars Strategies course. Students will complete the program with an understanding of their four-year academic plan, university bill and payment method, and campus resources.
We do this by:
- Connecting students to an active support network of faculty, staff and students.
- Fostering student engagement through early move-in to the residence halls and early exposure to campus staff and services.
- Empowering students to manage financial, time, and personal resources.
- Assisting students in achieving academic and personal success.
Pathfinder Position Description 2025
Position Description:
Pathfinders are responsible for serving as mentors and guides to new UNI students participating in the Jump Start Scholars extended orientation program. Pathfinders will participate in training sessions, facilitate their small groups, and staff all events and activities of the Jump Start program. These activities include, but are not limited to check-in, program sessions, social activities. Pathfinders will also provide resource and referral information to students and families, prepare Jump Start Scholars materials, in addition other duties as assigned.
The application for 2025 Jump Start Scholars staff will open in Spring.
Pathfinders interested in returning to staff will need to complete the application. Those interested in also being considered for a Program Assistant role can indicate that on the application.
Contact jumpstart@uni.edu or 319-273-4705 with questions.
Compensation:
$14 per hour
Qualifications and Requirements:
- Currently enrolled UNI undergraduate student (must also be enrolled during the fall term following employment) in good academic standing
- Positive attitude regarding the university
- Openness to learning more about self, others, and UNI
- Strong communication skills
- Preference given to former Jump Start Scholars participants
Time Commitment:
- Full-time Pathfinder staff training from Monday, August 11th through Friday, August 15th, 2025
- Full-time work during Jump Start Scholars from Saturday, August 17th through Wednesday, August 20th, 2025
- Jump Start Scholars staff MUST be in attendance for the entire week of training and the entire Jump Start week