Teaching Assistant - Commuter

Teaching Assistant

Thrive Scholars is seeking Teaching Assistants who can work with a faculty member to administer a college math or writing course to our students preparing for the rigor of courses at selective institutions. The math courses are expected to include Pre-Calculus, Calculus I, and Calculus 2. Final determination of math levels during the 2026 Summer Academies is to be determined based on student demand. The writing course is Introduction to College Writing. The uniqueness of this position lies in its dual focus on supporting students both inside and outside the classroom.

This role provides the opportunity to co-create and nurture a culture of safety that maximizes student engagement and learning. College readiness teaching assistants serve as both teachers and mentors, combining instructional support with personal guidance.

TA's will be supported by their faculty members, Academic Coordinators, the Site Director, Assistant Site Director, and Thrive full-time staff members.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as the Teaching Assistant for two sections of a college-level math or writing course in collaboration with a faculty member.
• Facilitate lessons, lectures, and interactive activities to ensure students grasp key concepts.
• Provide support during class hours and office hours, addressing student questions and clarifying complex topics.
• Collaborate with the faculty member to design and implement effective teaching strategies for college readiness.
• Writing TAs: provide one-on-one coaching and feedback on student writing.
• Build a supportive community among assigned students, fostering a sense of belonging and connectedness.
• Implement unique and engaging methods to start each class period, creating a positive and inclusive learning environment.
• Develop shared meanings and motivation mantras with students to promote resilience and a growth mindset.
• Communicate concerns for students who may display signs of disengagement to the Site Director
• Co-create and facilitate a culture of safety that encourages deep engagement and participation in the learning process.
• Serve as a mentor to students, providing guidance on academic and personal development in preparation for the challenges of selective institutions.
• Foster a collaborative learning environment that encourages peer support and knowledge sharing among students.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree required
• Can demonstrate competency in college-level calculus (ranging from pre-calculus to calculus 2) or college-level writing (personal essay, literary analysis, and expository writing)
• Can demonstrate effectiveness in supporting and teaching assigned course subjects in a university setting
• Experience in a learning environment such as a summer camp, school, academic summer program, or a residential high school strongly preferred
• Experience in and passion for working with a diverse community of high school & college students
• Superior interpersonal skills & ability to build effective relationships with students, faculty, & staff
• High level of dependability & strong commitment to ensuring the health & safety of participants at all times
• Enthusiasm & ability to work in a high-energy environment, foster positivity & energy among high-school & college students
• Ability to independently manage multiple priorities
• Uphold and enforce the values, policies, and procedures of Thrive Scholars as outlined in the program manual
• Ability to exercise sound decision-making and maintain confidentiality
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries
• Professional dress is required
• CPR & First Aid certification preferred
• Must pass a background check and complete required safety trainings

Compensation, Benefits, and Program Dates: College Readiness Teaching Assistants support commuter program sites across multiple locations. Tentative program dates by campus are as follows:

1. University of Southern California; Los Angeles, CA

• $24/hour, plus lunch
• June 13 – July 31

• Mercy University Manhattan Campus; New York City, NY

• $24/hour, plus lunch
• June 27 - August 14

• Northwestern University; Evanston, IL

• $22/hour, plus lunch
• June 20 – August 7

Once the program begins, Teaching Assistants are expected to work 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, following a set class schedule with additional flexible hours for work outside of class. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required for special events such as college fairs or program celebrations. Full staff training and orientation will begin in mid-June, with the final schedule determined in collaboration with the Site Director and Program Director.

Working Environment & Physical Requirements

• Frequent sitting, talking and listening and occasional walking, bending, stooping, and pulling
• Handle and operate computers, tools or controls
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds
• See clearly in an indoor and outdoor environment
• Work in an indoor classroom environment that may not have air conditioning in the summer
• Travel off campus (transportation will be provided and advance notice will be given if required)
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Equal Employment Opportunities:

Thrive Scholars provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status. Knowing their importance to the success of our work, Thrive Scholars is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we aspire to build a diverse staff team and community. We strongly encourage people of all backgrounds to apply.