Program Manager

Company Introduction
WorldStrides is the global leader in educational travel and experiential learning. The company was founded in 1967 to provide middle school travel programs to Washington, D.C. and has grown to provide a wide range of programs for more than half a million students annually to over 100 countries around the world. WorldStrides offers experiential learning programs in educational travel, performing arts, language immersion, career exploration, service-learning, study abroad, and sports. Each of these experiences helps students to see beyond the classroom and to see the world – and themselves – in new ways.
Job Description:
The Program Manager is responsible for advising, converting, and supporting students participating in WorldStrides Higher Education programs throughout a specific region.
Program Managers guide students from application through departure, ensuring a smooth, informed, and supportive journey to studying abroad. The role includes ongoing communication with students, families, and U.S. university partners.
Our team believes deeply in the power of international education and brings that enthusiasm to every student interaction.
Responsibilities
Student Advising & Case Management
Provide high‑quality advising from application through program departure using established best practices.
Maintain proactive communication via phone, email, and virtual meetings.
Review and determine eligibility of student applications for designated program locations.
Advise students on academics, course registration, host university expectations, housing, visas, budgeting, cultural preparation, and program logistics.
Program Operations
Review course selection forms, academic documentation, and placement exams; manage accurate and highly-detailed course information.
Manage and update pre-departure orientations for assigned locations.
Prepare Arrival Guides and all pre‑departure materials for each student cohort.
Support visa advising for destinations, in coordination with internal teams.
Track acceptance timelines, enrollment metrics, and withdrawals; use these insights to inform best practices.
Stakeholder Communication
Communicate professionally with families and U.S. university partners regarding program details, expectations, and processes.
Respond to on‑site incident reports in collaboration with regional teams and other internal stakeholders.
Participate in the program-wide on‑call rotation approximately once per year.
Program Improvement & Team Collaboration
Review program evaluations and work with the Team Lead on improvements.
Support emerging projects, new program locations, and evolving responsibilities driven by enrollment trends.
Optional domestic travel to support recruitment efforts and pre‑departure orientations at U.S. universities.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree.
1–3 years of professional experience preferred.
Strong interest in international education and student development.
Excellent written and oral communication skills, including strong phone presence.
Demonstrated critical thinking and ability to work calmly under pressure.
Detail‑oriented with strong time‑management and organizational skills.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
Willingness to take on responsibilities beyond core tasks as needed.
Ability to lift up to 30 lbs (e.g., recruitment materials).
Valid passport in the even international program support is needed.
Friendly, positive, service-oriented approach to student support.
Experience living, studying, or working abroad
Previous experience in student advising, customer service, or administrative roles.
Strong intercultural communication skills in a professional context.
Work Perks
Fun & driven environment.