Students Shoulder-to-Shoulder is committed to delivering unique, powerful, and comprehensive educational programs for all participants.  Highly-qualified, dynamic, and compassionate course instructors are central in achieving this goal.  The lasting impact of students’ experiences is directly connected to the quality of the instructors who facilitate the programs.  In the spirit of service that is at the core of each SStS program, course instructors work without financial compensation.  However, the intangible benefits of working shoulder-to-shoulder with highly-motivated young people and inspiring non-profit partners in compelling locations around the world has proven to be ample reward.

Expectations of Course Instructors

• Donation of time; SStS covers travel and living expenses during each program.
• Responsibility for working on-line with co-course instructors, organizing logistics and coordinating the pre-course educational activities in the spring (February-May).  These activities are organized around SStS’s five lenses curriculum model.
• Participation in pre-course trainings:  a few days in length in June;  post-course debriefs in July; and inspiration for student, post-course presentations.
• Facilitation of dynamic, experiential lessons and discussions while on-site that are focused on allowing participants to develop a deeper appreciation for the communities in which they are immersed.

Requirements of Course Instructors

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
• Extensive experience leading trips with adolescents.
• Minimum of 21 years old.
• Personal international travel experience if applying to lead an international program.
• Current emergency medical qualifications of Wilderness First Aid or greater or willingness to obtain these prior to the course.

How to apply

Educators interested in pursuing a course instructor position for any of SStS’s programs should contact Mike Beerntsen, SStS Director of Operations, at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .