Careers and Internship Counsellor at Mpesa Foundation Academy

Job Ref : UC/Careers/2022

Line Manage : Head of University Admissions    

Duration  : 1 year contract  (Renewable based on performance and need)

Overall Role Purpose

Offer exceptional career and internship guidance aligned to IB Curricular.

Key Responsibilities

1. Guide students through subject choices within MYP.
2. Help students to select either IBCP or IBDP after MYP completion. Guide students through and help them make subject choices within IBCP and IBDP.
3. Initial point of referral for academic and study issues.
4. Delivery of study skills program alongside Faculty staff.
5. Delivery of careers education program across all student year groups and curricula.
6. Assisting students to prepare for, select, and get into tertiary education programs in line with their career aspirations. Making students aware of the benefits of specific courses and universities available globally that meet   their aspirations and abilities.
7. With the Head of University Admissions, guide students through the application process for Universities in N. America, Europe, Australia, South Africa and elsewhere globally. This will include reading through student’s transcripts prior to submission.
8. With the Head of University Admissions, advise students on scholarship opportunities.
9. Preparing students for ACTs and SATs for possible applications to US universities, i.e. with students at Y10 level onwards.
10. Helping students choose courses and extracurricular activities that will help them get into their chosen career paths after graduation.
11. Staying current with university and college admission processes and requirements, tertiary level programs and developments in education and financial aid.
12. Assisting to organise University Fairs and careers events at the Academy and represent the same at other college fairs and other promotional opportunities.
13. Conducting interviews, reviewing application materials, and assisting in the decision-making process of students.
14. With the Head of University Admissions, advising parents on the transition process from the Academy.
15. Maintaining accurate and current knowledge of educational legislation, trends, developments, and resources.
16. Keeping clear records of students seen by the counsellors while maintaining confidentiality
17. Preparing and sharing periodic reports with the line manager and where necessary with other relevant stakeholders e.g. the Director of Studies, Head of School
18. • Consult with employers regarding optimal marketing strategies to connect students with internships and jobs
19. • Coordinate and participate in career fairs
20. Act as a liaison between the student, educational institution and the internship or placement providers
21. Provide students with student employment information, paperwork and authorization
22. Provide students with guidance and information regarding career research, options and decision making, goal setting, and job searching
23. Build partnerships with organizations that can provide internships for students

Person’s Specifications

1. Bachelor’s degree in education or equivalent
2. Minimum of 2 years’ experience as a career counsellor
3. Experience as IB career counsellor will be added advantage
4. Able to work effectively in both small ambiguous environments

Key competencies

1. Excellent communication skills
2. Good presentation skills
3. Ability to work with young adults
4. Excellent networking skills
5. Awareness of current career trends

Please read the job description before you apply for the position. Only those who meet the criterial set in the job description will be shortlisted for interviews.