UI REACH Summer Camps

EXPLORE - EXPLORE Camp is a weeklong summer experience designed for high school students with disabilities (ages 14–21) to explore post‑graduation options and build transition skills. During the camp, students live on the University of Iowa campus, participate in field trips to local businesses, engage in job‑shadowing and industry visits, and develop self‑advocacy and career readiness skills.

INSTI - The Iowa National Summer Transportation Institute (INSTI) is a residential STEM summer camp that introduces middle and high school students to careers in transportation, engineering, and related STEM fields. Through hands‑on projects, university lab tours, leadership activities, and local and statewide field trips, students explore topics such as engineering, aviation, roadway design, environmental systems, and transportation safety. Participants stay in University of Iowa residence halls, engage with experts across transportation industries, and build both career readiness and college‑prep skills. The program welcomes students from diverse backgrounds—including youth with and without disabilities, students of color, and young women—to support the next generation of leaders in transportation and STEM.

UI REACH Bridge Camp is a residential summer camp that help students strengthen the skills needed for a successful start in the UI REACH program. Students practice independent‑living routines, learn campus navigation, build social connections, and gain familiarity with college expectations in a supportive environment. Bridge Camps reduce the stress of transition by giving students early exposure, confidence, and community before the academic year begins.

Overview

• This is a first shift position with hours of 8 am – 4 pm.
• This position is for three different summer programs (please see dates below). As an Academic Associate, you will play an active role in providing positive experiences to young adults aged 14 – 21 with and without disabilities visiting the University of Iowa campus. There will always be an on-call supervisor for assistance if needed. 

Academic Associate Responsibilities

• Report directly to the Academic Lead Instructor.
• Perform duties assigned by the Academic Lead Instructor and Program Director.
• Report all incidents to the Academic Lead Instructor or Program Director.
• Assist with academic instruction.
• Provide individualized (for example: reading assistance for a student with learning disabilities, assisting a student to write) and small group support and supervision during all activities including lunch.
• Provide support for the students.
• Set respectable personal standards for students.
• Implement and adhere to university policies.
• Organize and distribute resource materials.
• Set up in-person activities.
• Assist with coordination of field trips.
• Provide support and supervision during field trips and activities.
• Facilitate small group exercises.
• Assist with program opening and closing activities.
• Assist with check-in/check-out of all participants.
• Assist with weekly evaluations.
• Interact with the faculty, participants, and administrative staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned. 

Required Qualifications

• Ability to work the assigned shift.
• Previous experience training, or coursework related to supporting, students in an academic setting is strongly encouraged.
• A minimum of 13 years of education (completed one year of college).
• Team player.
• Positive attitude.
• Ability to think quickly in fast-paced situations.
• Patience, organization, and a desire to see others succeed.
• Successful completion of a criminal background check. 

Desired Qualifications

• Previous experience working with individuals with disabilities is strongly encouraged.
• Degree or seeking a degree in the field of education or related field.
• Preference is given to individuals currently or recently attending college and to individuals with previous experience working with junior high and high school youth with disabilities.
• CPR/AED/First Aid certified.
• Bloodborne Pathogens certified.

Work Hours

• June 8 – June 10: Mandatory Training
• June 15 – June 19: EXPLORE Camp (adults and minors)
• June 22 – June 26: INSTI Camp (minors) 
• July 13 – July 17: Bridge Camp (adults 18+) 

Training Requirements

• Criminal Background Check upon hire
• Minors on Campus online training
• Attend trainings that occur June 8 – 10 

Rate of Pay

• $18 per hour