Organizational Overview

The mission of Onward We Learn is to prepare and inspire young people in Rhode Island to become the first in their families to attend and complete college. From the time they join through their early years of college, participants experience the steady, nurturing presence of caring adults and participate in programs that focus on academic enrichment, personal development, career exploration, and college preparation.

Purpose of the Position

The Financial Aid Specialist plays a critical role in helping students and families navigate the financial aid process and access the resources needed to pursue postsecondary opportunities. This position provides individualized guidance on financial aid forms, requirements, and follow-up processes by supporting Financial Aid Nights and other student programming. Through strong relationship-building, accurate information sharing, and consistent communication with families and program staff, this role helps ensure students receive the support they need to successfully complete financial aid milestones and make informed decisions about their educational pathways. The Financial Aid Specialist also contributes to program success by maintaining accurate records, monitoring student engagement, collaborating with staff, and staying current on financial aid updates and best practices.

This is a part-time, seasonal position (mid-September through May) with a fluctuating weekly schedule based on student needs. This role may be a great fit for a current/former college access, college admissions, or financial aid professional looking to support first-gen students on their journey to college.

Responsibilities

Event & Student/Family Support

• Attend evening Financial Aid Nights and assist with event setup and breakdown.
• Lead sessions with students and families during Financial Aid Nights to guide them through the completion of required financial aid forms.
• Assist with student attendance, transitions, and other operational responsibilities during program hours.
• Provide follow-up support to families as needed to complete additional financial aid requirements, including FAFSA verification, CSS Profile IDOC, and other related processes.
• Meet with students and families in person or virtually if they are unable to attend the events.
• Assist students with identifying scholarship opportunities and completing applications.
• Monitor student engagement and well-being, sharing observations, successes, and concerns with program staff to ensure students receive appropriate support.
• Maintain professional boundaries while building authentic, supportive relationships with students and families.

Data Use and Continuous Improvement

• Keep detailed and organized records of all interactions with students and families, ensuring the confidentiality and security of sensitive information.
• Track key milestones as indicated by the organization.
• Stay informed about the latest financial aid updates to provide timely and accurate guidance to students and families.

Team Collaboration and Professional Development

• Maintain regular communication with the Director of Programs and Opportunities with updates on student progress, to discuss any challenges, and collaborate on solutions.
• Collaborate with staff to ensure consistent, high-quality program delivery and positive student experience.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development to strengthen financial aid knowledge and meeting facilitation.

Schedule and Commitment

• Wednesdays-Thursdays, 5:30 - 8:30 PM & occasional Saturdays during the academic year
• Additional virtual sessions driven by student demand
• Attend occasional meetings and training sessions on Fridays

Required

• Bachelor’s degree and background in education, school/college counseling, youth development, or a similar field.
• Experience with college admissions and financial aid systems.
• Hands-on experience completing a FAFSA and a CSS Profile form.
• Bilingual: Spanish, Cape Verdean Creole, or French.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely.
• Exceptional organizational skills, capable of working independently and managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate and confidential records.
• Familiarity with the needs of under-represented and first-generation students.
• Proficient in Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Word, and Excel) and able to learn and effectively use the latest software and technology systems employed by Onward.
• Commitment to Onward We Learn's mission, values, and strategic objectives.
• Reliable access to transportation.

Preferred

• Comfort with different modes of learning
• Available to work weekends as needed for program support and special initiatives.
• Open to working on special projects during financial aid off-season