Summer Program Assistant Positions for Florence Study Abroad Program – "Leading a Renaissance Then and Now"

Northwestern University's Global Learning Office is seeking two passionate and dedicated Program Assistants to support the "Leading a Renaissance Then and Now" undergraduate study abroad program in Florence, Italy. This immersive program explores the impact of leadership and social networks on cultural innovation through the lens of Renaissance Florence, bridging history and modern global contexts. A cohort of 30 students enroll in two courses, Organizational Leadership (taught by Leslie DeChurch), and Leading and Leveraging Networks (taught by Noshir Contractor). The program assistants will attend and support the administration and grading in both courses.

Program Dates: 
Monday, June 15 –Sunday, July 19, 2026

Position Summary:
The Program Assistant will play a pivotal role in ensuring the academic and cultural success of the program. Working closely with the Program Faculty, Leslie DeChurch and Noshir Contract, and our local partners at Accent Learning and the British Institute of Florence, the PAs will provide academic, administrative, and pastoral support to students, facilitate engaging learning experiences, and serve as a resource for cross-cultural adjustment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist with pre-departure and on-site orientation sessions, focusing on academic expectations, cultural adaptation, and program logistics.
• Facilitate academic activities, including class discussions, field trips, site visits, and guest lectures, aligning them with course objectives.
• Support grading and provide feedback on course assignments, ensuring timely submission of grades.
• Hold office hours and offer instructional support for student assignments.
• Offer guidance and counseling to students on personal, academic, and cultural matters, fostering their overall well-being.
• Accompany students on field trips, group meals, and program events, serving as a liaison with local partners and the community.
• Contribute to program administration, including resolving logistical issues and maintaining communication with stakeholders.
• Participate in post-program evaluation and contribute to the program review process.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with Italian culture and history; Italian language fluency is not required but is a strength.
• Strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills to support student engagement and handle program logistics.
• Experience in education, academic instruction, or student advising is highly desirable.
• A passion for cross-cultural learning and leadership development.

Compensation & Benefits:

• $4,000 stipend payable at the end of the program
• Round-trip airfare to Florence
• Program-provided accommodations in Florence
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage through GeoBlue Global Health Insurance

Application Deadline:
Submit by Friday, May 8 at 12:00 PM CT for fullest consideration; applications accepted until both positions are filled.

Application Instructions:
To apply, please submit the following:

1. A cover letter detailing your interest and qualifications for the role
2. A current CV or resume
3. Contact information for two professional references
4. Submit applications to Leslie DeChurch, dechurch@northwestern.edu and Catrina DeBord, catrina.debord@northwestern.edu.

Please note: Mandatory training will be provided by Northwestern's Global Learning Office and/or the Office of Global Safety and Security.