Academic Advising: Peer Advisor

Who are they?

A peer advisor's main role is to greet students who contact the Academic Advising Center and help them find answers to their questions. Peer advisors provide basic information and clarification about topics such as General University Requirements, course registration, academic warning and probation, majors, and academic policies. The advisors also set up appointments for students to meet with professional advisor, and, when needed, refer them to another office for assistance.

Qualifications?

• Completion of three academic quarters before beginning work.
• Minimum of 2.5 cumulative G.P.A.
• Successfully complete SAA 340, a 4 credit course designed to prepare students for their role as a peer advisor.
• Experience working with people in a customer service environment.

Recommended experience?

Although we thoroughly train new peer advisors, it helps to have experience with different resources and offices across campus, as well as a basic understanding of university policies and procedures.

Training?

One course, SAA 340, is required during spring quarter. This course covers topics that include communication in the advising context, professionalism, confidentiality, campus resources, university policies, and academic planning. Additionally, new peers must complete at least 10 hours of observation in the Academic Advising Office. We do ongoing training with current peer advisors to keep them up to date on changing academic policies and procedures.

How many students are hired annually?

We try to maintain a team of 10 peer advisors at any time. Hiring depends on how many peers graduate and leave the office. Typically we end up hiring three to four new peers each year.

Where can people learn more?

Beginning January 5th, information and application procedures will be posted on the WWU Student Employment Website.

Deadlines?

We begin accepting applications January 5, 2011. Priority deadline for 2011-2012 consideration is February 1, 2011.