University Student Assistant - First-Generation Student Success Peer Mentor

Department:

Dean of Student’s Office

Work Hours:

Varies depending on class schedule and department need.

Anticipated Start Date:

October 26, 2026

Salary:

$10.00 per hour (up to 20 hours per week)

Job Summary:

The First-Generation Student Success Peer Mentor supports first-generation college students' academic success, retention, and sense of belonging through proactive outreach, relationship-building, and educational programming. This position focuses on engaging students during evening and non-traditional hours when many students are available outside of class and when university offices may be closed.

The Success Champion serves as a visible and approachable resource by conducting outreach and support activities in residence halls, dining facilities, the library, student gathering spaces, and other campus locations. Through individualized check-ins, small-group discussions, referrals, and programming, the Success Champion helps first-generation students navigate challenges, connect with campus resources, and build a stronger sense of belonging in the university community.

This position is supported through funding provided by the Alabama CHEER Act and related state appropriations. The position plays a role in advancing institutional performance outcomes associated with student success, retention, completion, workforce readiness, and other designated CHEER Act measures. Continuation of the position is dependent upon the continued availability of CHEER Act funding, legislative appropriations, institutional participation, satisfactory performance, and programmatic need. The incumbent is expected to support CHEER Act objectives; maintain documentation necessary for evaluating program effectiveness; collect and report required data; document best practices and continuous improvement efforts; participate in assessment and compliance activities; and perform other duties as assigned in support of University and CHEER Act priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct proactive outreach to first-generation students through one-on-one conversations, informal check-ins, and follow-up meetings.
• Build meaningful relationships with students and provide encouragement, support, and guidance regarding campus engagement and student success.
• Meet students in locations where they naturally congregate, including residence halls, dining facilities, the library, student centers, and other campus spaces.
• Assist students in identifying needs, barriers, and concerns and connect them with appropriate campus resources.
• Support students experiencing challenges related to belonging, engagement, financial hardship, time management, academic adjustment, or campus navigation.
• Plan, coordinate, and facilitate evening and weekend programs designed to support first-generation student success.
• Develop educational workshops and informal engagement opportunities focused on topics such as college success, belonging, campus resources, financial literacy, well-being, and personal development.
• Collaborate with campus departments to expand opportunities for first-generation student involvement and engagement.
• Assist with special events, celebrations, and recognition programs for first-generation students.
• Maintain accurate records of student contacts, outreach efforts, attendance, and referrals.
• Document student interactions within university-approved systems and processes.
• Monitor follow-up needs and maintain consistent communication with assigned students.
• Provide feedback regarding emerging student needs, trends, and opportunities for additional support.
• Perform other duties related to student success and first-generation programming as assigned.

Required Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED.
• At least one year of experience working with college students, youth, customer service, mentoring, advising, leadership, or related areas.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and effectively manage multiple responsibilities.
• Availability to work evenings and occasional weekends.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic communication tools.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Pursuing a degree in education, social work, counseling, public administration, or similar program.

Notice Regarding International Students:

• All international students must be in a valid immigration status.
• Please visit the International Programs website for additional information: http://www.jsu.edu/international/index.html
• Due to Visa requirements international students must be enrolled as a full-time Jax State student and possess each of the following:
• Passport from their respective country.
• F-1 Student Visa or J-1 Exchange Student Visa.
• U.S. Customs Form I-94.
• Official photo identification.
• Official Social Security Card imprinted with “Valid for Work Only” or similar statement

Required Documents:

Clery Notice: In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act, https://www.clerycenter.org/the-clery-act the Jacksonville State University Police provide information on crimes statistics, crime prevention, law enforcement, crime reporting, and other related issues for the past three calendar years. The JSU Annual Campus Security and Fire Report is available online at: https://www.jsu.edu/police/docs/cleryannualreport.pdf

Equal Employment Opportunity: Jax State is an Equal Employment and Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, genetic information, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.