Peer Instructors (PIs) are successful sophomore, junior, and senior students who are interested in helping new students adapt to life at NIU. The prime responsibility of a PI is to help with either a UNIV 101 or UNIV 201 course which emphasizes the experiences and skills that are expected to help each student in his or her transition to NIU—getting involved, goal-setting, time management, healthy decisions, diversity, etc. They assist an instructor with planning course activities, facilitating class discussions, and providing information to students on a peer level. PIs also serve as resource persons and models of success for students who may be uncertain about their ability to make this transition.
Placement as a Peer Instructor is both an honor and a rewarding opportunity for professional and personal growth. This is a volunteer position open to undergraduate students who meet the requirements below.
Students must meet the following qualifications:
1. Those serving as Peer Instructors often find it rewarding to know that they have made a difference at NIU by helping new students adjust to college life.
2. This is a perfect opportunity to gain both teaching and leadership experience and also to strengthen one’s communication skills.
3. The Peer Instructor position looks fabulous on a résumé, too!
What is the time commitment? All Peer Instructors must attend two training sessions: one in April and one in August. During Summer 2012, Peer Instructors will be assigned to a section of UNIV 101 or 201 and will be expected to attend all class meetings in the fall. UNIV 101/201 classes typically meet twice a week for 50-75 minutes for the first 12 weeks of the semester. Meetings with the instructor(s) are also required as needed. There may be additional training opportunities and PI meetings throughout the fall 2012 semester with additional opportunities for leadership roles.
Attend a Peer Instructor Info Night to learn more about what being a PI means, hear stories from returning peer instructors, and enjoy some refreshments.
Thursday, November 3rd
9:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Douglas Smart Classroom
Monday, November 14th
5:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Holmes Student Center Room 506
Please join us and learn what being a UNIV peer instructor is all about!
Please return completed application to First-Year Connections, located in the basement of the Holmes Student Center, Room 023H. Applications must be received by 4:00 p.m. on Friday, December 2, 2011 to be considered for the priority deadline. Applications will be accepted through Wednesday, March 14, 2012 but with limited position availability.
What is the interview process?
The first round of interviews will begin after winter break starting Monday, January 23, 2012. You will be notified of the position in late January. The second round of interviews will be conducted in late March. Returning Peer Instructors do not have to interview for the position.
Feel free to contact First-Year Connections staff at 753-0028 or at firstconn@niu.edu.