YPIE Mission
Yonkers Partners in Education (YPIE) partners with students to ensure they are ready for, enroll in, and complete college. We confront the challenges of a low-income, urban school district by providing families with equitable access to the critical tools and services necessary for college success.
Position Overview
Our YPIE students have tremendous stories to share! Starting in the summer between junior and senior year and continuing through December, YPIE Essay Coaches provide support to our Scholars and Fellows as they write their college essays, a critical part of the college application process. Essay Coaches work closely with and under the guidance of the YPIE College Advisors assigned to each Yonkers public high school. Training and support is provided to Essay Coaches throughout the essay writing process, with regular benchmark checkpoints to ensure that the process is staying on track.
Essay Coaches will meet with their Scholars virtually (video/phone calls) for the foreseeable future. Occasional in-person meetings are permitted outside of school/YPIE provided appropriate Covid protocols are followed and necessary permission is obtained. We look forward to restarting in-person meetings in the school buildings in the future, although Essay Coaches may choose to work exclusively remotely.
Essay Coach Responsibilities
Assist students in brainstorming topics, drafting, and revising college essay
Ensure students’ voices are expressed and honored throughout the writing process
Follow directions provided by YPIE staff regarding the essay writing process
Meet consistently with students and notify YPIE staff if meetings become inconsistent
Regularly update benchmark tracking document to ensure process remains on track
Requirements
Sense of humor, positive mindset, and persistent attitude
Reflective listening and respectful communication skills
Desire to invest in the life of a young person
Strong writing/editing skills
Ability to attend scheduled YPIE trainings
Learn more: ypie.org/volunteer