Local Coordinator - New York

As a Local Coordinator at International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES), your key responsibilities include recruiting and screening volunteer host families, building strong relationships with local high schools, and providing ongoing support and mentorship to exchange students. This role is vital in ensuring that both students and families have a positive and enriching experience throughout the cultural exchange program.

To become a Local Coordinator at International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES), you should have a high school diploma along with at least 7 years of post-high school work or life experience. Required skills include excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, a strong interest in foreign cultures, and a passion for working with youth aged 15-18. While a Bachelor’s degree in social sciences or education is preferred, it is not mandatory, as training will be provided for the suitable candidate.

Earnings for Local Coordinators at International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES) are commission-based, which means your annual income can fluctuate significantly based on student placements. Typically, if you place between 5 to 25 students in an academic year, you could earn anywhere from $4,000 to $30,000, in addition to bonuses for your efforts in supervision and mentorship.

Yes! One of the exciting perks of being a Local Coordinator at International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES) is the opportunity for all-expense-paid international travel. You could experience beautiful cities like Bangkok, Rome, or Paris, all while engaging in your role of supporting cultural exchange. Additionally, you’ll be invited to annual training conferences that cover your travel and hotel expenses, providing excellent networking and training opportunities.

International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES) offers extensive support to its Local Coordinators, including thorough training and resources to help you thrive in your role. You will have access to a dedicated team that guides you through the recruitment of host families and mentorship of students. With a collaborative and supportive environment, you will feel equipped to handle any challenges you might face while making a difference in students' lives.

When answering this question, reflect on any personal experiences you have with cultural exchange, whether through travel, hosting, or participating in programs. Highlight specific examples that showcase your understanding of diversity and ability to connect with individuals from different backgrounds.

Discuss your strategies for outreach, including potential community events, partnerships with schools, and leveraging social media. Emphasize the importance of matching students with families who share similar interests and values, as well as your effective communication skills in explaining the benefits of hosting.

Acknowledge the potential challenges, such as family compatibility issues or logistical challenges in student placements. Discuss your problem-solving skills and your approach to maintaining open lines of communication with families and students to foster strong relationships.

Outline the ways you would stay in touch with students, check in on their well-being, and encourage them to share their experiences. Provide examples of activities you might organize to help students integrate into their new communities and connect with peers.

Focus on building partnerships through open communication with school officials and staff. Discuss how you would attend school events and foster connections with educators, reinforcing ICES’ commitment to cultural exchange. Initiatives to promote student benefits and school involvement could also demonstrate your engagement.

Provide examples of your verbal and written communication skills, such as any previous roles or experiences where you had to facilitate discussions or engage various stakeholders. Highlight your ability to listen actively and empathize with students and host families to create a supportive environment.

Share specific examples that illustrate your time management skills. Discuss how you prioritized tasks, such as finding host families while supporting students, ensuring both roles were fulfilled effectively without compromising quality.

Articulate your personal beliefs about the value of cultural exchange in fostering mutual understanding and peace. Share any experiences that have shaped your perspective, and emphasize how they align with ICES's mission to promote cultural understanding.

Discuss your approach in identifying local resources such as community organizations, cultural centers, or schools, and how you would collaborate with them to create enriching experiences for exchange students. Mention examples of successful partnerships if applicable.

Share your passion for youth development and the impact of mentorship. Discuss how your motivations will guide your interactions with students and host families to foster an environment where young individuals feel valued and supported throughout the exchange process.