Academic Mentor

Academic Mentor

Villanova University, in collaboration with the North Penn School District, is launching an Afterschool Artificial Intelligence (AI) Club at local elementary schools as part of an NSF-supported outreach initiative. The program will bring together K–12 teachers, engineering students, and AI professionals to mentor elementary students (grades 1–6) as they explore how AI can be used to solve real-world challenges. The club will run January 2026 – June 2026, meeting two to three afternoons per week after school in Lansdale, PA.

AI/Machine Learning Mentors will help design and lead engaging, age-appropriate activities introducing core AI and computational-thinking concepts. Working alongside K–12 teachers and the project's faculty lead, mentors will guide student teams in developing creative AI-enabled projects for submission to the Presidential AI Challenge. This is an excellent opportunity to apply technical knowledge in a community context, build mentoring and communication skills, and contribute to socially relevant engineering education.

This is a part-time, hourly position (approximately 5–10 hours per week, January 2026 – June 2026). Looking to hire up to 5 individuals.

Responsibilities:

• Attend planning meetings with faculty lead and K–12 teachers.
• Assist in developing short, hands-on AI learning modules.
• Co-mentor small student teams during afterschool sessions (3× per week).
• Provide basic technical guidance in AI tools, data handling, and ethical use.
• Support field trips and showcase events as needed.
• Maintain clear communication with the PI and school staff.

Requirements:

• Required Qualifications:
• Enrolled Villanova Student (undergraduate junior / senior or graduate student)
• Completed at least one formal course in Machine Learning or Artificial Intelligence (or a related course). Alternatively, demonstrated knowledge in the topic.
• Work Skills (e.g., written and verbal communication skills): Strong communication and collaboration skills
• Specific Job Knowledge (e.g., knowledge of principles and procedures related to field and area): Demonstrated proficiency in coding, robotics, and engineering design (e.g., Python, MATLAB, Arduino, C++ or similar).
• Other: Reliable transportation and valid driver's license to commute to Lansdale, PA. Availability for afterschool hours (typically 3:00–6:00 p.m.) 2 to 3 days per week

• Preferred Qualifications:

• Work Experience: Prior experience mentoring or teaching youth (tutoring, outreach, camps, etc.)
• Equipment Knowledge: Familiarity with educational robotics or visual programming tools (e.g., Scratch, Sphero, LEGO Mindstorms)
• Other: Interest in educational technology, community engagement, or STEM outreach

Additional Information:

Please submit your application at A brief cover letter (1 page) describing: Your experience with AI or machine learning, Why you are interested in community-engaged AI education, and Your availability for the project's proposed duration. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until positions are filled.

Physical Demands Summary:

Wage Rate: $13 per hour for both undergraduate and graduate students