First-Year Student Engagement Associate at University of Michigan Hillel

Hillel International seeks a dedicated Full-Time First-Year Student Engagement Associate to lead meaningful student transitions and build thriving Jewish community at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Washtenaw County. You'll welcome, mentor, and guide first-year students as they discover belonging, develop their Jewish identity, and grow into engaged campus leaders from their very first semester.

About the Role

The First-Year Student Engagement Associate serves as the primary relationship-builder and mentor for incoming first-year students at University of Michigan Hillel. This hands-on position centers on creating personal connections, designing inclusive programs, and providing consistent support during the transformative first year on campus. Your work directly shapes whether students build lasting ties to Jewish community, intellectual growth, and campus leadership opportunities during this critical transition period.

What You'll Do

• Conduct proactive outreach to first-year students before arrival and during orientation, establishing genuine relationships through phone calls, messages, and in-person encounters
• Develop and facilitate welcoming social, cultural, and educational programs that introduce students to Jewish traditions, values, learning, and peer community
• Mentor first-year students through the challenges and opportunities of early college life, serving as a trusted advisor and resource
• Coordinate Shabbat gatherings, cultural celebrations, leadership workshops, and learning initiatives tailored to first-year interests and developmental needs
• Cultivate peer mentorship models where student leaders support newer students, building sustainable community ownership
• Track engagement metrics and gather student feedback to refine first-year programming and improve retention
• Partner with residential life, academic advisors, and other campus departments to integrate first-year students across the broader university ecosystem

What We're Looking For

• Demonstrated personal commitment to Jewish life, learning, and community
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with genuine warmth and ability to build trust across diverse backgrounds
• Prior experience mentoring, advising, or supporting students or young adults through major transitions
• Strong organizational and project management abilities; comfort juggling multiple programs and relationships
• Availability for evening and weekend campus-based programming
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience in student engagement, youth leadership, or community work

About Hillel International

Hillel International empowers Jewish students across hundreds of college campuses to build identity, develop leadership, and create inclusive belonging. At University of Michigan Hillel in Ann Arbor, we're committed to ensuring every first-year student enters a welcoming, vibrant community.

How to Apply

To apply, complete your application directly on this page, or you'll be redirected to the employer's application platform to finish submitting there.