The International School of Asia, Karuizawa (ISAK) is seeking college students or recent graduates who are fluent in English for the counselor position at ISAK Summer School 2015.
Program Overview:
ISAK is hosting its sixth annual summer school in July 2015 for intellectually curious and motivated middle school students. Our participants learn about themselves and the world while enjoying the crisp air and natural beauty of one of Japan’s premier vacation destinations. Our faculty members are experienced, committed educators who are skilled at guiding students toward taking responsibility for their own growth and learning. The emphasis at ISAK Summer School on “Diversity”, “Leadership” and “Design” makes for a truly unique and transformative experience.
80 students will join us this year from all over the world. The student body will represent different countries, cultures, languages, religions, and socioeconomic backgrounds (Summer School 2014 received 540 applications from middle school students from 43 different countries).
Counselors’ role in the program:
As a counselor, you will have the opportunity to assist with various tasks throughout the program and work closely with students and teachers:
· Academic classes: Acting as a Teaching Assistant by assisting experienced educators from around the world during academic classes. For instance, counselors who are involved in assisting with the science class may serve as a judge for science debates, assist students with their classwork, and help lead in-class events.
· Extracurricular classes: Taking on leadership roles during extracurricular activities such as ultimate frisbee, modern dance, soccer, art class, and martial arts; whatever you are good at and able to lead.
· Outside of the classroom: Acting as a Residential Counselor in student dormitories, co-leading an advisory meeting in the evenings, and helping guide students on a day hike.
Almost 100% of past counselors have expressed their interest in returning to Summer School.
“The leadership class was one of the highlights of my experience as a counselor. I was always excited to see the students learn through the challenging activities and find their own leadership styles. More importantly, however, the class gave me the opportunity to reflect on what is most important to me in my life now. The lessons that the students learned were no less applicable to me and helped me grow as a person.” (Yale University, Class of 2017)
“The community at ISAK is very special; the staff, teachers, and counselors make me feel confident even when I’m taking on a challenge. I might sound like a Summer School student, but it’s not just the students who have a learning experience at ISAK!” (Smith College, Class of 2017)
“What has been unforgettable for me are the lessons I learned from students. ISAK has an especially diverse student body, but it is even more extraordinary that within this diverse group, there is a willingness to share that brings everyone together as a strong community. Every individual has his or her own story, but when individuals share their stories with each other, they feel deeply connected no matter how far they will be apart after the summer. Working with ISAK has deepened my passion for education.” (National Taiwan Normal University, Class of 2013)
“Having the opportunity to work with inspiring teachers and educators from around the globe was one of the many highlights for me. I learned so much from being a part of their dynamic classes; I wish I had the chance to be a student at ISAK Summer School when I was that age! It was also incredible to be able to work with other counselors around my age and make connections with them for life. Being a counselor at ISAK Summer School is one of the most meaningful experiences I have ever had.” (Brown University, Class of 2015)
Prior experience working with students in educational settings will be appreciated, but is not required. Counselors will be reimbursed for round trip transportation for travel within Japan, as well as accommodation and meals for the duration of the program.
This is a volunteer position, and flights will not be covered for those who are coming from overseas. However, if you will be applying to this position through a program/institution that will sponsor you or help cover expenses, we will be supportive in providing necessary documentation or information.
Summer School Dates: July 18 – July 30, 2015 (Orientation for Faculty/Counselors to start on the 16th)
Location: ISAK Campus, Karuizawa, Nagano prefecture, Japan
Application Deadline: February 28, 2015
*Candidates must be able to join for the full session outlined in the dates above; no partial participation will be considered.
Application Process:
If you are interested in the position, please submit the following application materials to [email protected] by February 28, 2015.
· Resume: Please indicate your academic and work/volunteer experiences, and whether you would able to lead any extracurricular activities (Ex: Martial arts, modern dance, sports, etc.)
· A short essay on why you are interested in this opportunity and how you feel you can contribute to the program (300-500 words)
Promising candidates will be contacted by ISAK, and an interview via Skype will be held with selected candidates. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis- we encourage you to apply early. The final deadline is February 28, 2015, and all applicants will be notified of decisions by March 31, 2015 at the latest.
Questions about the position or requests for further details may be sent to the ISAK Summer School Office at [email protected].
Organization Overview:
The International School of Asia, Karuizawa (ISAK) opened as Japan’s first fully residential international high school in August 2014. The school’s mission is to develop transformational leaders who explore new frontiers in service of the greater good of Asia and beyond. In anticipation of the school’s opening, ISAK has been offering a Summer School program since 2010.
