Statement of Purpose Advisor

Job Description

Overview

The Statement of Purpose (SOP) is a key component of graduate school applications. For IRT Scholars applying to 7+ programs, writing and refining multiple school-specific SOPs is a demanding process. To support this, the IRT hires External SOP Advisors—often alumni, though not required—to help students draft, revise, and finalize their SOPs, along with other application materials such as writing samples, resumes/CVs, personal history statements, and diversity essays. Advisors work with IRT Scholars during the Fall SOP Advising period, spanning 8 weeks from September to November. Advisors are expected to introduce themselves to their advisees, hold initial meetings, and complete onboarding and training in June and July.

IRT seeks advisors from various graduate disciplines and professional fields, particularly those with expertise in Anthropology, Communications, Economics, Education Policy & Leadership, Interdisciplinary Humanities, K-12 Teaching, Philosophy, Political Science, and Psychology.

Scope of the Role

Complete onboarding and training (June-July, approx. 10-15 hours total)

Advise 1-5 IRT Scholars, with an estimated workload of 3 hours per week per advisee

Hold weekly meetings (approx. 60 minutes for the first meeting, 30-40 minutes for follow-ups) during the 8-week advising period (Sept. 15- Nov. 7, 2025)

Provide feedback on at least one SOP draft per week via IRT's Canvas course

Review writing samples, resumes/CVs, and supplemental essays at least once during the 8-week period

Adhere to IRT's grading system for accountability (recent policy to ensure rigor)

Qualifications

Consistent access to a cell phone, computer, and internet (fully remote position)

Must have or be pursuing a graduate degree

Experience working with diverse populations, non-traditional, and first-generation students

Experience editing, grading, and reviewing graduate-level writing

Multilingualism is a plus

IRT alumni are preferred

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a 2-3 paragraph statement of interest and resume/CV to include 3 references to the Phillips Andover ADP Job Portal by April 4, 2025.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all positions are filled. After reviewing completed applications, selected candidates will be invited for a virtual interview via email. Following the interview process, offers for IRT SOPA positions will be extended. Applicants who do not return their hiring paperwork by Monday, May 19th, will forfeit their offer.

Start and End Date

This position runs from Monday, June 2 to Sunday, November 30, 2025.

Compensation

External SOP Advisors are temporary, part-time employees of Phillips Academy Andover at a rate of $30/hour. Advisors submit hours biweekly and are paid via ACH direct deposit.

Phillips Academy is committed to equal employment opportunity and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with physical and/or mental disabilities. We value and encourage diversity and solicit applications from all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, military service, application for military service or any other characteristic protected by law. Any offers of employment will be contingent upon successful CORI/SORI and fingerprinting background checks, as well as unrestricted authorization to work in the United States.

Fully remote