Background
Developed by Africans for Africans, Isomo boldly tackles the crisis of literacy, critical thinking, and university access through African learning-centered interventions and curriculum that bolster critical thinking and holistic human flourishing in the 21st Century.
Our Mission
Build a lifelong fellowship of high-capacity leaders in Africa to accelerate the growth of their countries and improve the lives of others.
Our Values
ALL IN
We are committed to pursuing excellence in everything we do to achieve our mission.
RESULTS MATTER
We believe results speak louder than words and our work should have an impact.
RIGHT PEOPLE
We believe the first step is getting the right people in the right seats–this is where you come in!
BETTER TOGETHER
We believe in the power of partnering with others to achieve common goals.
Job Overview:
Designed to remove bottlenecks that Rwandan professionals face when seeking graduate education, the Isomo Graduate Scholars Program is our newest addition to the programs that we run. For the next five years, we are committed to supporting over four hundred professionals secure admission and funding into top graduate school programs globally. We are looking for a skilled and teachable university guidance counselor to join our team of university counselors that prepare and advise candidates through their application processes. As a university guidance counselor, you will be instrumental in providing comprehensive guidance to applicants as they embark on their graduate school application journey. You will also spend time building systems and structures that will enable you and your team to adequately meet the organization’s goals. Your role encompasses guidance, mentorship, and facilitating access to resources to ensure our applicants are competitive for the most promising opportunities. You will be trusted with the most important responsibilities of guiding and counseling applicants looking for graduate school opportunities.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Research and learning
a. Research and learn about new and already existing graduate school opportunities of interest to our community.
b. Identify key contact points for different targeted programs and establish contact.
c. Support in building and maintaining a database of viable opportunities.
2. Candidates preparedness
a. Participate in the recruitment processes.
b. Help graduate school applicants understand available options for them.
c. Host in-person and virtual school visits and information sessions.
d. Support applicants through their test preparation by ensuring timely registration and access to resources.
e. Provide feedback on application materials such as essays and letters of recommendation before the beginning of the application process.
f. Run seminars, community events, and teach classes.
3. Application support
a. Support applicants understand and shortlist potential programs of interest.
b. Host regular office hours with applicants.
c. Help applicants understand program requirements and eligibility criteria.
d. Preview application materials produced by applicants.
e. Coach and help applicants prepare for interviews.
f. Assist applicants in financial aid applications and ,once admitted, understand their financial aid packages.
4. Partnerships and outreach
a. Maintain partnerships with government agencies, private companies, and other organizations that might be sources of potential applicants.
b. Work closely with third party sources of opportunities including bodies like HEC and government embassies.
c. Maintain relationships with universities and departments that have partnerships with Isomo
d. Attend conferences and university visits.
5. Other organization responsibilities
a. Assist other teams in different activities such as roadshows, bootcamps, school visits, among other activities.
b. Attend scheduled team meetings and retreats and provide updates on behalf of the IGSP team.
c. Provide your support in other activities as assigned by your supervisors.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree required, Masters degree preferred.
- Proven experience in student services, academic advising, or related roles within an educational setting.
- Proven experience in building and maintaining institutional partnerships.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse student populations.
- Familiarity with higher education systems and scholarship opportunities is preferred.
- Passion for empowering students and contributing to Rwanda’s educational advancement.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential for effectively providing guidance, and liaising with various stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate others, contributing to team projects and initiatives. This includes active listening, providing feedback, and fostering a collaborative environment.
- Strong interpersonal skills enabling building relationships and handling interactions with students, colleagues, and stakeholders with empathy and professionalism.
- Aptitude for continuous learning and adaptability to evolving educational landscapes, demonstrating flexibility, critical thinking, and collaboration in embracing new initiatives and methodologies.
- Exceptional self-management abilities to prioritize tasks, manage time efficiently, and maintain high productivity levels. This includes self-motivation, organization, and proactive professional development.
- Proficiency in organizational skills to enhance productivity, achieve goals, and manage multiple responsibilities effectively. This encompasses planning, attention to details, and critical thinking.
- Competency in basic computer skills, including word processing, spreadsheets, email communication, and proficiency in utilizing relevant software and digital tools in the modern office.
- Open-mindedness toward new methodologies and approaches, willingness to embrace change, and adaptation to different educational paradigms are essential to supporting the diverse needs of students and stakeholders.
- Demonstrated commitment to excellence and integrity in work, exhibiting reliability, accountability, and the ability to meet deadlines independently while upholding professional standards and ethics.
Why Join Us?
- A community of dedicated lifelong learners and professionals all committed to the pursuit of excellence.
- Space to dream, innovate, and create.
- Opportunity to impact students’ educational and career trajectories significantly.
- Collaborative and supportive work environment.
- Opportunities for professional growth and advancement in diverse educational fields.
Interested candidates should upload their C.V/Resume and Cover Letter to this form and reach out to graduate@bridge2rwanda.org with any questions.
Deadline:March 15, 2025
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
