Ohio College Guides - Columbus, OH

Make a real impact on the lives of Ohio students and their surrounding community - become an Ohio College Guide Ameri Corps member and serve as an advisor, mentoring and guiding typically underserved Ohioans—first generation college‑going, low‑income, and minority— in getting the information and knowledge they need and deserve to prepare for, access and complete a postsecondary credential. The College Guides deliver programs and counseling on college and career exploration and financial education to 6th through 12th graders;

provide support to 11th and 12th graders on strategic and tactile postsecondary access and financial planning; and facilitate successful postsecondary transitions, persistence and ongoing financial education with high school graduates. Develop advising, mentoring, interpersonal, and leadership skills. This position is a full-time commitment of 1,700 service hours to be completed in 11 months, starting in August 2023. College Guides will receive a modest living allowance of $30,000 and an education award up to $6,495 upon completion of service.

Additionally, existing qualified student loans are deferred during time of service and accrued interest may be eligible to be paid by the Corporation of National and Community Service. The Ameri Corps Ohio College Guides receive ongoing skills training and professional development opportunities. Host sites for the 2023‑2024 Ohio College Guides program are:
Canton (Stark Education Partnership);
Cincinnati (Cincinnati Youth Collaborative);
Cleveland (College Now Greater Cleveland);
Columbus (I Know I Can); and Oberlin (Ninde Scholars Program).

• Serving with I Know I Can, the College Guides positions include Columbus City Schools middle schools and high schools.
• Utilizing an online college planning tool to develop and deliver classroom‑based workshops primarily to 8th graders, as well as to students in grades 9‑10 and 6‑8 and assist with activities focused on grades 11‑12.
• Planning and promoting college & career advising services and programs for students/parents.
• Leading collaborative efforts with students, parents, counselors, principals, parent consultants, and community partners to ensure proper delivery of services.
• Assisting students with all aspects of their college search, admission, and financial aid process including ACT/SAT fee waivers, college application fee waivers, FAFSA and financial aid assistance, and grant processing.
• Entering data into IKIC’s PATH database to track progress and success of all activities.

• Training
• Education award upon successful completion of service
• Health Coverage
• Childcare assistance if eligible
• Living Allowance

• Permits working at another job during off hours
• Car recommended
• Permits attendance at school during off hours