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PTY Senior Summit Job Opportunities

Spring Programs Accepting Applications

PTY Senior Summit 2025 Summer Positions

All individuals expressing interested in PTY positions must be at least 18-years-old. Two years experience working or volunteering with youth, is preferred but not required, for most positions.

Please follow the links below for individual position job descriptions. For any questions about summer positions, please contact the PTY Senior Summit team by emailing pty.seniorsummit@vanderbilt.edu. Applicants both internal and external to Vanderbilt are welcome to express interest.

There is no deadline to submit interest in PTY Senior Summit positions. Statements of interest will continue to be accepted until all positions are filled. You can express interest in multiple positions. We are unable to provide sponsorship of an employment VISA at this time.

A Note Concerning Residential Positions

PTY Senior Summit is a residential program for high school students, and due to legitimate resident privacy interests, residential halls and/or floors are separated by gender.

The Residential positions are Proctors who live on the same hall as their assigned proctor group of 8-14 students and Area Coordinators, who supervise Proctors and live on the same hall as their assigned proctor cluster.

Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and due to legitimate residency privacy interests, gender is a Bona Fide Occupational Qualification (BFOQ) to allow assignment to gender-specific living spaces. Applicants for Residential positions (VSA Proctors, Area Coordinators and Residential Academic Proctors) will need to confirm whether their gender identity corresponds with a male or female living space. For logistic purposes only, we must consider gender identity when hiring to make sure we have appropriate adult coverage on each residence hall floor. If you have questions about this policy, please contact pty.seniorsummit@vanderbilt.edu.

A Note Concerning Driving

Seasonal staff in certain positions may have the option, based on program need, of opting into using program motor vehicles and/or golf carts. Agreeing to drive for the program is not a condition of employment for all positions and is only offered to some individuals based on program need. Seasonal staff who express willingness to drive program vehicles and/or golf carts for the program must have and maintain a valid driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record. Vanderbilt University engages a third party to provide continuous up-to-date notifications regarding negative changes to motor vehicle records for those driving for the program.

Position Descriptions

  • PTY Senior Summit Area Coordinator (Multiple Openings)

    PTY Senior Summit Area Coordinator


    Location: Nashville, TN
    Type: Residential
    Reports to: Head of Senior Summit

    Job Description:

    An Area Coordinator (AC) serves as an in-residence floor leader and supervisor. Residents will be rising seniors in high school who are participating in the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation scholars program that culminates with the PTY Senior Summit. The Area Coordinator leads as “a proctor for the proctors” by providing support and supervision to proctors and serves as the bridge between proctors and the leadership team. Area Coordinators will reside in the residential hall with Senior Summit scholars and staff. Working 50-60 hours during the Senior Summit session is typical, including weekend shifts. This role requires flexible weekend hours on Check-in/Check-out Days and during the weekends of program operation. Flexibility is essential in this position.

    Perks:

    Your summer includes:

    • Making a difference through investing in the lives of gifted and high achieving young scholars.
    • Working on the campus of a nationally-known institution.
    • Partnering with a leading national foundation that supports exceptionally promising youth.
    • Adding a unique experience to your resume.
    • Partnering with a nationally known foundation and making your mark during the inaugural summer of PTY Senior Summit.
    • Joining a team of dedicated staff who are passionate about developing talent in gifted students.
    • Competitive compensation with most meals, provided while in session, and private room in residence hall included.

    Expectations:

    Within their wide array of duties and responsibilities, PTY Senior Summit Area Coordinators are expected to:

    • Supervise PTY Senior Summit Proctors in all aspects of their roles.
    • Grow and maintain Residential Proctor morale and performance through routine group and 1:1 meetings and conversations.
    • Ensure the quality and effectiveness of nightly proctor meetings as well as filling in to lead these meetings as needed.
    • Possess cultural sensitivity awareness and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
    • Lead an initial Floor Group Meeting on the opening night of each session to set clear standards and policies.
    • In partnership with the Head of Activities, serve as lead of various evening activities.
    • Possess strong organizational and communication skills along with proven problem-solving abilities.
    • Handle unexpected student issues, including but not limited to:  student illness, violations of stated community code of conduct, student support and encouragement, and the like.
    • Be highly mature and able to assist with the management of a residential community of a summer academic program for teens.
    • Brainstorm, with proctors, ideas for working with students who may be struggling academically, socially, emotionally, physically, or otherwise, referring to the leadership team as needed.
    • Meet regularly with the leadership team and provide information and ideas for maintaining a positive and healthy community of students and staff.
    • Engage willingly as a team player with humor, enthusiasm and a compassionate understanding of middle and high school academically advanced students as well as the proctors and other staff members who support them.
    • Enthusiastically adapt and pivot as needed to ensure optimal, engaging, and safe student experiences.
    • Assume other program related responsibilities as assigned by administrative staff.
    • Work closely with other team members to accomplish program goals and address problems in a timely and effective manner.
    • Uphold all expectations for proctor roles and responsibilities.
    • Exemplify PTY Senior Summit’s purpose, identify and communicate the cornerstones of a respectful residential and academic community and serve as a role model for all staff and students.
    • Uphold and enforce all federal, state, University, and program policies as outlined in staff and student handbooks and other referenced materials.
    • Thrive in a fast-paced, demanding work environment that requires continuing flexibility, a positive and caring attitude, and collaboration.
    • Adhere to PTY’s policies related to confidentiality.
    • Perform other related duties as assigned.

    Qualifications:

    The ideal candidate will:

    • Possess at least a bachelor’s degree.
    • Have extensive residential life and/or summer program experience at the secondary school or college level.
    • Have extensive leadership and/or team building experience.
    • Be able to live in the summer residence hall with PTY Senior Summit students and proctor staff.
    • Demonstrate exceptional maturity and character.
    • Have experience communicating with parents or key stakeholders of an organization.
    • Embody a strong team player ethic and sense of humor.
    • Be able to successfully and positively communicate with individuals of all ages, experiences, and roles.
    • Successfully pass the Vanderbilt University criminal background check and online training for working with minors.
    • Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials.
    • Must be able to traverse distances of at least one mile, including stairs, with or without accommodation.
    • Must be able to lift and/or maneuver at least 40 lbs. with or without accommodation.

    Compensation:

    $16.00/hr (plus housing and meals while PTY Senior Summit is in session)

    Program Dates and Times:

    • Onsite Training: July 2nd, 3rd & 5th, 2025*
    • PTY Senior Summit Session: July 6-23, 2025
    • The typical standard weekday shift is 6:30am-8:30am and 2:30pm-11pm in addition to extensive weekend hours. Please note that hours may vary slightly depending on session assignments. Area Coordinators work 1-2 hours each morning in supervising the residential halls as students wake up as well as escorting students to breakfast.
    • Please note, PTY Senior Summit requires all residential staff to live in the residence hall. This means all staff are expected to remain in the residence hall overnight for each and every night PTY Senior Summit is in session with the exception of agreed upon 24-hour time-off periods. These 24-hour time off periods will be clearly communicated at the onset of Senior Summit and will be different for each staff member in order to maintain the correct adult to student ratios that are in compliance with Vanderbilt University’s Protection of Minors policies.

    *dates subject to change

    Click Here to Express Interest in a Position

  • PTY Senior Summit Residential (7-12) Proctor (Multiple Openings)

    PTY Senior Summit Residential Proctor


    Location: Nashville, TN
    Type: Residential
    Reports to: Area Coordinator

    Job Description:

    A Residential Proctor (RP) serves as an in-residence counselor and leader for a group of 8-14 rising seniors in high school who are participating in the inaugural Vanderbilt University and Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Senior Summit, a residential, advanced academic program. Through intentionally cultivating community by leading meaningful evening activities and facilitating daily team building, Residential Proctors are critical to enhancing the academic and social experience for students. Working 45-55 hours during the Senior Summit is typical, including weekend shifts. This residential position requires flexible weekend hours on Check-in/Check-out Days and during the weekends of program operation. Flexibility is essential in this position.

    Perks:

    Your summer includes:

    • Making a difference through investing in the lives of gifted and high achieving young scholars.
    • Working at one of the most prestigious universities in the nation.
    • Partnering with a leading national foundation that supports exceptionally promising youth.
    • Loving what you do while building your resume.
    • Joining a team of dedicated staff who are passionate about developing talent in gifted students.
    • Competitive compensation with meals and private room in residence hall included.

    Expectations:

    Within their wide array of duties and responsibilities, PTY Senior Summit Proctors are expected to:

    • Lead, supervise, and be the first line of support for a group of 8-14 Senior Summit scholars.
    • Be a role model for all student participants and colleagues.
    • Uphold and exemplify community values, regulations, and expectations.
    • Curate a safe, cordial, and supportive residential community for all students and staff.
    • Co-create and implement age-appropriate and unforgettable recreational activities.
    • Enthusiastically adapt and pivot as needed to ensure optimal, engaging, and safe student experiences.
    • Collaborate with other Proctors to ensure a positive community culture.
    • Remain in frequent communication with the leadership team regarding student well-being and engagement.
    • Assist with various administrative duties and processes to ensure smooth operations.
    • Thrive in a fast-paced, demanding work environment that requires continuing flexibility, a positive and caring attitude, and collaboration.
    • Adhere to PTY’s policies related to confidentiality.
    • Perform other related duties as assigned.

    Qualifications:

    The ideal candidate will:

    • Be a current undergraduate or graduate student.
    • Demonstrate exceptional maturity and character.
    • Possess cultural sensitivity awareness and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
    • Have experience working with teenagers in a youth development setting. (Residential life/camp counseling experience a plus).
    • Embody a strong team player ethic and sense of humor.
    • Be able to successfully and positively communicate with individuals of all ages, experiences, and roles.
    • Successfully pass the Vanderbilt University criminal background check and online training for working with minors.
    • Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials.
    • Must be able to traverse distances of at least one mile, including stairs, with or without accommodation.
    • Must be able to lift and/or maneuver at least 40 lbs. with or without accommodation.

    Compensation:

    $12.00/hr (plus housing and meals while PTY Senior Summit is in session)

    Program Dates and Times:

    • Onsite Training: July 3rd & 5th, 2025*
    • PTY Senior Summit Session: July 6-23, 2025
    • The typical standard weekday shift is 6:30am-8:30am and 2:30pm-11pm in addition to extensive weekend hours. Please note that hours may vary slightly depending on session assignments. Residential Proctors work the morning shift to supervise the residential halls as students wake up as well as escorting students to breakfast. PTY requires all residential staff to live in the residence hall. This means all staff are expected to remain in the residence hall overnight for each and every night Senior Summit is in session with the exception of agreed upon 24-hour time-off periods. These 24-hour time off periods will be clearly communicated and will be different for each staff member in order to maintain the correct adult to student ratios that are in compliance with Vanderbilt University’s Protection of Minors policies.

    *dates subject to change

    Click Here to Express Interest in a Position

  • PTY Senior Summit Non-Residential (7-12) Head of Activities (Multiple Openings)

    PTY Senior Summit Head of Activities


    Location: Nashville, TN
    Type: Non-Residential
    Reports to: Head of Senior Summit

    Job Description:

    The Senior Summit Head of Activities is responsible for designing and overseeing developmentally appropriate and engaging student activities and ensuring the efficient implementation of all events and activities throughout the inaugural Vanderbilt University and Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Senior Summit program. Working closely with residential staff, the Head of Activities plans, schedules and implements both choice-based and all group events that align with PTY’s mission and values.

    Perks:

    Your summer includes:

    • Making a difference through investing in the lives of gifted and high achieving young scholars.
    • Working at one of the most prestigious universities in the nation.
    • Loving what you do while building your resume with leadership experience.
    • Joining a team of dedicated staff who are passionate about developing talent in gifted students.
    • Competitive compensation with meals and private room in residence hall included.

    Expectations:

    Within their wide array of duties and responsibilities, the PTY Senior Summit Head of Activities is expected to:

    • Ensure the quality, effectiveness and mission alignment of all activities and events including off-campus excursions.
    • Effectively create and implement internal communication systems and strategies to build awareness and excitement for all activities.
    • Design efficient systems for student selection of activities.
    • Oversee, with administrative support, the supervision of all activities following stated guidelines, safety procedures, and protection of minors policies.
    • Possess strong organizational and communication skills along with proven problem-solving abilities.
    • Establish a strong rapport with Residential Proctors and Area Coordinators while working with them in brainstorming and co-developing a variety of diverse, safe, and developmentally appropriate activities.
    • Meet regularly with the leadership team and provide information and ideas for improving activities, transportation and logistics of all events.
    • Engage willingly as a team player with humor, enthusiasm and a compassionate understanding of middle and high school academically advanced students as well as the proctors and other staff members who support them.
    • Adapt and pivot as needed to ensure optimal, engaging, and safe student experiences.
    • Assume other program related responsibilities as assigned by administrative staff.
    • Work closely with other team members to accomplish program goals and address problems in a timely and effective manner.
    • Exemplify PTY Senior Summit’s purpose, identify and communicate the cornerstones of a respectful residential and academic community and serve as a role model for all staff and students.
    • Uphold and enforce all federal, state, University, and program policies as outlined in staff and student handbooks and other referenced materials.
    • Thrive in a fast-paced, demanding work environment that requires continuing flexibility, a positive and caring attitude, and collaboration.
    • Adhere to PTY’s policies related to confidentiality.
    • Perform other related duties as assigned.

    Qualifications:

    The ideal candidate will:

    • Possess at least a bachelor’s degree.
    • Have extensive residential life and/or summer program experience at the secondary school or college level.
    • Have leadership, recreation and/or team building experience.
    • Possess cultural sensitivity awareness and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
    • Demonstrate exceptional maturity and character.
    • Embody a strong team player ethic and sense of humor.
    • Be able to successfully and positively communicate with individuals of all ages, experiences, and roles.
    • Successfully pass the Vanderbilt University criminal background check and online training for working with minors.
    • Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials.
    • Must be able to traverse distances of at least one mile, including stairs, with or without accommodation.
    • Must be able to lift and/or maneuver at least 40 lbs. with or without accommodation.
    • Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record. Vanderbilt University engages a third party to provide continuous up-to-date notifications regarding negative changes to motor vehicle records.

    Compensation:

    $22.00/hr

    Program Dates and Times:*

    • Onsite Training: July 2nd, 3rd & 5th, 2025
    • PTY Senior Summit Session: July 6-23, 2025
    • The typical standard weekday shift is 2:30pm-10pm.

    *dates subject to change

    Click Here to Express Interest in a Position

  • PTY Senior Summit (7-12) Academic Proctor (Multiple Openings)

    PTY Senior Summit Academic Proctor


    Location: Nashville, TN
    Type: Non-Residential or Residential
    Reports to: Head of Senior Summit

    Job Description:

    The Academic Proctor supports the PTY Senior Summit, an inaugural Vanderbilt University and Jack Kent Cooke Foundation advanced academic program, through assisting logistical, risk management and scheduling aspects of the Senior Summit classroom. Academic Proctors begin each day by supervising students at breakfast and are responsible for all building-to-building transitions throughout the academic day. Academic Proctors help all student needs as they arise as well as ensure that all risk management policies are being followed. Academic Proctors also assist with airport logistics during Check-in (first day of session) as well as assist with supervising at least one weekend of residential activity during the 18-day session. Additional weekend hours supporting activities may also be available (optional).

    Perks:

    Your summer includes:

    • Making a difference through investing in the lives of gifted and high achieving young scholars.
    • Working on the campus of a nationally-known institution.
    • Adding a unique experience to your resume.
    • Joining a team of dedicated staff who are passionate about developing talent in gifted students.
    • Competitive compensation with lunch included.

    Expectations:

    Within their wide array of duties and responsibilities, PTY Senior Summit Academic Proctors manage three domains of responsibility:

    1. Risk Management Support — Adhere to and support compliance of program and university policies including the protection of minors, guidelines and regulations, and provide additional support as determined by administrative staff.
    2. Logistical Support — Set up for labs and other classroom activities and other duties necessary for the smooth operations of the classroom.
    3. Student Support — Liaise with appropriate staff about students’ socio-emotional and academic concerns. All PTY staff must adhere to PTY’s policies related to confidentiality.

    PTY Senior Summit Academic Proctors are also expected to:

    • Be a role model for all student participants and colleagues.
    • Implement efficient operations and workflow strategies in a rapidly changing and fast-paced residential program.
    • Possess cultural sensitivity awareness and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
    • Liaise between academic and residential life through facilitating effective communication across multiple program areas.
    • Uphold and exemplify community values, regulations, and expectations.
    • Enthusiastically adapt and pivot as needed to ensure optimal, engaging, and safe student experiences.
    • Assist with various administrative duties and processes to ensure smooth operations.
    • Thrive in a fast-paced, demanding work environment that requires continuing flexibility, a positive and caring attitude, and collaboration.
    • Adhere to PTY’s policies related to confidentiality.
    • Perform other related duties as assigned.

    Qualifications:

    The ideal candidate will:

    • Be a current undergraduate student, graduate student, or a professional.
    • Demonstrate exceptional maturity and character.
    • Have experience working within an office or customer service intensive role.
    • Have experience communicating with parents or key stakeholders of an organization.
    • Embody a strong team player ethic and sense of humor.
    • Be able to successfully and positively communicate with individuals of all ages, experiences, and roles.
    • Successfully pass the Vanderbilt University criminal background check and online training for working with minors.
    • Agree to adhere to all duties before, during, and after the program as outlined in the staff materials.
    • Must be able to traverse distances of at least one mile, including stairs, with or without accommodation.
    • Must be able to lift and/or maneuver at least 40 lbs. with or without accommodation.

    Compensation:

    $16.00/hr (Non-Residential)
    $12.00/hr (Residential; Housing and Meals provided)

    Program Dates and Times:

    • Onsite Training: 3rd & 5th, 2025*
    • PTY Senior Summit Session: July 6-23, 2025
    • Standard hours are Monday-Friday, 7:45AM–4:15PM.
    • Academic Proctors assist with Airport Logistics during Check-in (Sundays).
    • Academic Proctors will work on Saturday, July 12 & Saturday, July 19 from 8AM-4PM.

    *dates subject to change

    Click Here to Express Interest in a Position