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Student Program Assistant, FT Schools

California

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The Financial Times is one of the world’s leading news organisations, globally recognised for its authority, integrity and accuracy, with a mission to deliver quality information and services worldwide.

At the FT, curiosity thrives and ambitious thinking is rewarded. Here, you’re given the chance to reach millions, create work that matters and deliver impartial journalism in a polarised world.

In our warm, collaborative culture, you’ll connect with a diverse community of experts who support your growth, career aspirations and wellbeing.

Your future at the FT will be filled with opportunities that challenge and inspire you. With no fixed path, you’ll discover new skills and forge a career that can take you anywhere.

Build a newsworthy career at the FT.

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The Role / Position Overview

FT Schools is the Financial Times’ flagship education program providing free access to FT.com for high schools globally teaching 16 to 19 year olds. Over 5,800 schools in 132 countries use the FT to enrich lessons, support academic progress and prepare students for exams, university and future careers.

Through the FT Schools program, schools benefit from a wide range of resources such as the FT Schools Hub, regular competitions, a newsletter, topical webinars and the Student Advocate Program.

The Student Advocate Program gives students the chance to champion the value of trusted journalism among their peers and teachers. As informed voices within their school communities, Student Advocates take on short, purposeful tasks that build leadership, communication and critical thinking skills. They also share student perspectives with the FT, helping shape how we engage with younger audiences.

We are now seeking Student Program Assistants to support, motivate and lead these Advocates. Acting as mentors, they’ll play a key role in connecting the FT Schools team with high school students around the world. This is a chance to help shape how young people engage with trusted news and to make the FT more accessible and relevant to the next generation of leaders.

This is a remote, part-time position open to college students located in New York or California, lasting approximately 6 months (between September 15th to March 6th) with an encouraged dedication of 12 hours per month. The FT will provide support, mentoring, and a dynamic environment to help you grow your skills and make meaningful connections.

Key Responsibilities

  • Support a global group of approximately 60 Student Advocates by hosting two monthly calls and maintaining engagement via Slack
  • Help Advocates feel confident in sharing ideas to promote FT visibility in schools
  • Act as a liaison between the FT Schools team and Student Advocates—ensuring ideas and feedback are clearly communicated and implemented
  • Collect and synthesise feedback on student-led initiatives to inform future program development
  • Update teachers monthly on their students’ participation and respond to any inquiries
  • Track Advocate engagement, attendance, and follow-up to ensure active participation

Required Skills / Experience

  • Must be a current college student located in either New York or California during the timeframe of the position
  • Highly self-motivated with a proactive demeanor
  • Curious about journalism, news, and current affairs
  • Comfortable working independently and collaboratively
  • Excellent organisational and communication skills
  • Experience mentoring or working with youth and diverse groups
  • Familiarity with the FT and FT Schools (desirable but not essential)

Accessibility

We are a Disability Confident Employer and Valuable 500 signatory.

Please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments as part of the application process or to enable you to attend an interview. To discuss your needs or ask questions, contact our Talent Team at talent@ft.com.

Further Information

A reasonable estimate of the hourly rate for this role is $16.50 per hour. To ensure pay fairness, the successful candidate will be offered a rate within this range based on various factors including experience, skills, training, and organisational needs. This rate estimate applies to our NY or CA locations and has not been adjusted for other geographies.

Application Process

Please submit a resume and cover letter by August 18, 2025. Your cover letter may be submitted in various formats including written letter, video, or podcast. We want to hear:

  • Your ideas for how the FT can better engage with young people
  • Examples of your experience mentoring others or communicating with diverse groups

We encourage creativity and will invite shortlisted candidates to interview.

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