Activity Leader, DePaul University, IL

Job Description
Join International Study & Vacation () for Summer 2026 and help international high school students discover American culture while improving their English. Based at DePaul University, Lincoln Park, Chicago, you'll live on campus, lead excursions, run evening activities, and serve as a mentor for students aged 13 to 21 (primarily Italian). You report to the Activity Manager on site.

DePaul University is located in Lincoln Park, one of Chicago's most vibrant neighborhoods, just 2 miles from Lake Michigan and within a large city park. The campus features a metro station for easy city access and a modern sports center with volleyball, basketball, and soccer courts. You'll stay in air-conditioned dorm rooms.

Available Sessions Session 1:
Jul 17 to Aug 4

Excursions You'll Lead 7 guided city excursions with Metro Card included, featuring:

• Skydeck and Magnificent Mile
• Griffin Museum and Hyde Park
• Art Institute and Millennium Park
• 360 Chicago and Chicago Riverwalk
• Navy Pier and Shoreline Cruise
• Lincoln Park Zoo and North Avenue Beach
• Field Museum, Little Italy, and Chinatown
• Included admissions:
  Skydeck, Griffin Museum, Art Institute, 360 Chicago, Shoreline Cruise, Field Museum, and Lincoln Park Zoo
• 6 dinners in the city included, including Giordano's

Campus Evening Activities

• Disco party, karaoke night, and sports activities
• Weekly American BBQ

Your Responsibilities

• Assist with center preparation and student arrivals or departures
• Accompany students on full-day and half-day excursions, leading local tours
• Set up, run, and supervise planned campus activities and evening events
• Socialize and build genuine rapport with students and group leaders
• Provide support, guidance, and motivation to students throughout their stay
• Encourage students to speak English and participate in all activities
• Supervise students during meals, lesson breaks, and in residential halls
• Commit to the welfare, safety, and security of students at all times

Requirements

• US citizen, 18 years of age or older
• Valid bank account, able to complete I-9 and W-4 forms
• Availability covering all program session dates
• Ideally based in the Chicago area.
• Responsible for own travel to and from campus for move-in and move-out

What We're Looking For

• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Confident leading groups with enthusiasm and warmth
• Creative thinker who can problem-solve on the spot
• Team player prepared to collaborate and contribute ideas
• Adaptable and flexible, no two days are the same
• Strong conflict resolution skills and calm under pressure

Desired but not required

• Previous experience as a camp counselor or working with teenagers
• Sports coaching or PE qualifications
• First Aid or CPR certification
• Second language skills

Benefits

Weekly salary: $490 to $560 depending on experience

Free on-campus housing for the full duration of your contract

All campus meals covered, 'all you can eat' dining

$15 meal stipend on excursion days when meals aren't provided

Free transport provided for all excursions

Schedule:

12 days on with students, 2 days off (live-in role)