Now Accepting Sorensen YPM applications!
The Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership is seeking applicants to be Youth Program Managers in the summer of 2026 for its annual High School Leaders Program.
This year’s edition of our annual two-week residential High School Leadership Program (HSLP) will take place at the University of Virginia from July 11-25th.
Desirable qualifications are effective time management skills; a high degree of organization; the ability to work with high school students in a residential and classroom setting; knowledge of Virginia government and politics; significant peer leadership experience; experience working in a peer-to-peer counseling setting; a good understanding of professionalism; strong written and oral communication abilities; a strong belief in ethical behavior; and excellent human relations skills.
Applicants must be 19 years of age by the July 11 HSLP start date and should have completed at least one year of college or equivalent work experience. Applicants should also be prepared to bring a personal computer or laptop for their own use, and it would be beneficial for an applicant to have a car.
Successful applicants will need to attend an orientation week from July 6 through July 10. Successful applicants will work through the two-week HSLP and July 26, the day following the program.
During the HSLP, Youth Program Managers will be required to live in the same residence dorm as the students every night and work each day, with some half-days off duty.
Program Managers will receive $2700 in compensation at the completion of the program, as well as room and board through the program and university parking pass
When applying, please include on the application website: a current resume; a letter of recommendation; three references that may be contacted; and a brief cover letter explaining why you are interested in the position. Applications submitted without all the necessary materials may not be considered.
Questions and applications can be directed to Sarah Campbell at sc9ef@virginia.edu or (434) 243-2470. Applications must be submitted by March 20th, 2026, at midnight for consideration. Qualified applicants will be contacted to arrange an interview via phone or Zoom after this date.
JOB DESCRIPTION - YOUTH PROGRAM MANAGER
- $2700 plus room, meals, and parking during the program
- The full-time position runs from July 6 to July 26, 2026.
- Be in the residential dorm at the University of Virginia at all times when students are in the dorms with some time off each week.
- Assist in the daily operations of the programs - supervise students during the day, be on call certain evenings to assist students, serve as a mentor and guide for students, complete administrative work at the Sorensen office, etc.
- Travel by bus with the program on two planned field trips.
- Advise students in preparation of their culminating project as outlined in program materials. Manage at least one student research group.
- Provide administrative support during the program - help with coordination of activities, contact with speakers, development of culminating project groups, evening activities.
- Coordinate social events for the students in the programs.
- Successfully complete training with UVA’s Office of Youth Protection
- Pass background check in partnership with UVA’s Office of Youth Protection
- Other tasks necessary for the operation of the programs as requested by the Sorensen Institute's staff.