Prospective Peer Advisers
The Office of New Student and Family Programs relies heavily on student volunteers to plan and execute Wildcat Welcome and Family Weekend. Many students describe their leadership experience with Wildcat Welcome as one of their most meaningful experiences at Northwestern. Any current freshman, sophomore, or junior can apply to be a Peer Adviser at the beginning of the winter quarter.
What is a Peer Adviser?
- Peer Advisers advise and support incoming students throughout the summer and first year at NU. A select group of individuals will serve as Transfer Peer Advisers to assist with the successful transition of our transfer population. These applicants are usually transfer students.
- Applicants should display exceptional communication, organizational and interpersonal skills, a positive attitude, and passion a for Wildcat Welcome, Northwestern University and new students.
- Applicants should also excel in personal leadership, ethical decision-making, adequately accepting high levels of responsibility in an autonomous role and presenting a positive, well-rounded image of Northwestern University.
- Peer Advisers represent the diverse Northwestern community as we seek freshmen to juniors, those with varying levels of NU involvement, and a wide range of personalities.
Requirements & Characteristics of Staff Members
- Devote the majority of your time to Wildcat Welcome activities during the week of Wildcat Welcome
- Be motivating
- Be spirited and enthusiastic
- Have a positive attitude
- Be organized
- Demonstrate excellent communication skills
- Demonstrate exceptional interpersonal relationship skills
- Be flexible
- Be mature
- Be professional
- Be passionate about Wildcat Welcome, Northwestern University, and new students’ needs
- Serve as a role model and mentor
- Be open-minded toward diverse cultures, ethnicities, lifestyles, and backgrounds
Duties of Wildcat Welcome Staff Members
Attend all trainings and meetings during Spring Quarter--an attendance policy will be in effect- Maintain close communication with your Board liaison or freshmen over the summer for Wildcat Welcome updates, answers to questions, and concerns
- Attend One-Day Intensive Training, one day prior to the beginning of Wildcat Welcome
- Assist with new student move-in at assigned residence hall area. This includes check-in, moving boxes, conversing with parents and family members, and creating a welcoming environment
- Attendance at required assigned Wildcat Welcome events and activities
- Wildcat Welcome responsibilities associated with your particular school
- Assist with implementing the Essential NUs
- Attendance at all sessions, social activities, President’s Convocation, and various other Wildcat Welcome events
- Lead thoughtful and effective discussions after Essential NU sessions. Topics include diversity, safety, alcohol, etc.
- Answer all new students’ questions with honest and appropriate answers
- Coordinate solutions to problems, issues, or emergencies encountered during Wildcat Welcome
- Be prepared to devote the majority, if not all of your time during Wildcat Welcome to Wildcat Welcome events
- Assist with assigned Academic School’s Dean’s Convocation
- Other duties as assigned