Peer Instructors
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—including getting involved, setting goals, managing time, making healthy decisions and living in a multicultural community. They assist an instructor with planning course activities, facilitating class discussions, and providing information to students on a peer level. PIs also serve as resources 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.
What are the requirements?
Students must meet the following qualifications:
- Have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
- Prior UNIV 101/201 students preferable
- Demonstrate an ability to successfully lead a class of first-year students
- Have 3-4 hours per week to commit to the PI position during fall 2013
- Ablity to speak effectively on:
- Personal management skills (time, stress, health)
- Academic achievement skills (study, note-taking, test-taking)
- Living in a diverse community
- Getting connected (clubs, jobs, campus activities)
What are the benefits?
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?
What is the time commitment? All Peer Instructors must attend two training sessions: one in April and one in August. During Summer 2013, 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 2013 semester. 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 2013 semester with additional opportunities for leadership roles.
PI Info Nights
PI Info Nights were held in November, 2012. If you have any questions or would like further information on what being a PI means, please contact the First-Year Connections staff at 753-0028 or at firstconn@niu.edu.
How do I apply?
Please return completed application to First-Year Connections, located in the basement of the Holmes Student Center, Room 023H. Applications were due by Wednesday, December 5th 2012 to be considered for the priority deadline. Applications will be accepted through Friday, April 5, 2013 but with limited position availability.
- New PI application (PDF)
- Returning PI application (PDF)
What is the interview process?
The first round of interviews begin Monday, January 28, 2013. 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.
When is training?
Training will be Sunday, April 15, 2013 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Holmes Student Center. Please check your email for more information.
Questions?
Feel free to contact First-Year Connections staff at 753-0028 or at firstconn@niu.edu.