College Counselor & Global Perspectives/Leadership Instructor Full Time

Job Description

Position Title: College Counselor & Global Perspectives/Leadership Instructor

Reports To: Head of School and Deputy Head of School

Location: Kigutu International Academy (Kigutu, Burundi)

About Village Health Works (VHW)

Village Health Works is a 501(c) (3) social justice organization founded on the belief that health equity is not a commodity, but a right. VHW’s mission is to provide high-quality, compassionate healthcare and education to the most vulnerable populations, based on critical thinking, in a dignified environment. Rooted in the communities it serves, VHW employs a holistic model that integrates clinical services with education, food security, economic development, environmental protection, music, and the arts. With an 85,000 sq. ft. teaching hospital, a comprehensive health system, and the Kigutu International Academy, VHW addresses the root causes of poverty and promotes long term, sustainable change.

VHW Core Values

• Dignity: Every member of VHW’s team must value the inherent dignity in each individual.
• Excellence: We aspire to excellence in all we do and hold ourselves to the highest standards.
• Compassion and Justice: These are the heart of our mission and guide all of our actions.
• Boldness and Perseverance: We are courageous in addressing challenges and persistent in pursuing our goals.
• Accountability: We are accountable to each other, our community, and those we serve.

Position Summary

The College Counselor & Global Perspectives/Leadership Instructor plays a dual role in guiding students’ postsecondary planning and teaching key courses. The Counselor – Instructor is responsible for providing individualized college and career counseling, delivering instruction in Global Perspectives and Leadership, and coordinating the school’s external academic partnerships and programs. The Counselor-Instructor ensures that every student is equipped with the academic, personal, and leadership skills necessary for success in higher education and beyond.

The Counselor-Instructor will advise and support university placements that reflect the school’s global orientation, targeting reputable international institutions in Africa, Europe, Asia and North America, wherever immigration regulations permit the entry of Burundian students.

Key Responsibilities

1.College Planning and Application Guidance (25%)

• Provide individualized and group counseling to students on college planning, application strategies, and postsecondary decision-making.
• Design and facilitate workshops and classes across grade levels on topics related college application such as essay writing, as well as post-graduation life such as interview preparation, and career exploration.
• Support students with standardized testing (SAT, TOEFL, Duolingo, etc.) preparation and registration.
• Guide students in researching and applying for scholarships, financial aid, and other funding opportunities.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of student progress, applications, and outcomes.

2. Teaching and Instruction (25%)

• Teach Global Perspectives and Leadership courses.
• Incorporate project-based and experiential learning methods that foster critical thinking, communication, and ethical leadership.
• Support interdisciplinary learning and skill development across academic departments as needed.
• Assess student performance and provide feedback that promotes academic and personal growth.
• University and Partner Relations (15%)
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with universities, scholarship foundations, and educational partners.
• Coordinate university visits (virtual and in-person) and external engagement opportunities for students.

3. Administrative Coordination (20%)

• Serve as the school’s SAT Testing Coordinator and oversee logistics related to test administration.
• Manage student participation in external educational programs, including summer learning, internships, and exchange opportunities.
• Support student documentation, enrollment, and travel logistics for external academic initiatives.

4. Collaboration and Institutional Support (15%)

• Work collaboratively with the Academic Dean, faculty, and school administration to align postsecondary preparation with the school’s academic vision.
• Participate in staff meetings, parent sessions, and professional development activities.
• Contribute to the broader school community through mentorship, committee work, or co-curricular involvement.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Academic Dean or school leadership.

5. Qualifications and Competencies

5.1.Education

Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree in education, Counseling, Leadership, or a related field strongly preferred.

5.2. Experience

• Demonstrated experience in college counseling, academic advising, or teaching within a secondary or postsecondary institution.
• Experience with international education systems and college admissions processes is highly desirable.

5.3. Skills and Knowledge

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and counseling skills.
• Ability to design and lead engaging workshops and classroom instruction.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in managing student applications, reports, and program logistics.
• Familiarity with global higher education systems in Africa and other regions.
• Proficiency in English; French proficiency a plus.

5.4. Personal Attributes

• Empathetic, student-centered, and proactive.
• Collaborative team player with a commitment to equity and holistic education.
• Adaptable, innovative, and mission driven.

Tagged as: Burundi, Village Health Works