Peer Advising

Below you will find commonly asked questions regarding UWT's Peer Advising program. If you have additional questions please contact Bernie Liang our Student Affairs Resource Specialist.

Peer Advisers FAQ

• What is a Peer Adviser?
• Why does UWT have Peer Advisers?
• How much of a commitment is it to be a Peer Adviser?
• Can I get paid for being a Peer Adviser?
• Who is eligible to become a Peer Adviser?
• How can I find out more information and apply to become a Peer Adviser?
• What is the deadline to turn in applications?

What is a Peer Adviser?

Peer Advisers (PAs) serve as an integral part of New Student Orientation & Parent Affairs and the Division of Student Affairs at University of Washington Tacoma. As a member of the staff, Peer Advisers serve to help coordinate all New Student Orientation programs in the fall, winter and spring quarters as well as other programs (e.g. Welcome Week) that help to create a welcoming environment for all new students. Furthermore, Peer Advisers will work to serve as mentors to incoming students by providing resources, experience, and helpful guidance. By providing multiple opportunities for UW Tacoma students to interact, including planning events, we hope to create an inclusive environment where everyone can feel welcome and accepted.

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Why does UWT have Peer Advisers?

New Student Orientation is the beginning of an ongoing process of introduction that facilitates individual students and their family members/supporters transition into the learning environment at the University of Washington Tacoma. As our campus continues to grow, it will be increasingly important to provide a comprehensive program that emphasizes the University’s vision to educate diverse learners and transform communities by expanding the boundaries of knowledge and discovery.

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How much of a commitment is it to be a Peer Adviser?

Peer Advisers will work the entire year including through the summer months to help plan for Autumn Orientation and to communicate with new students. Weekly meetings and 1-on-1s with the Coordinator for New Student Orientation and Family Affairs are required.

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Can I get paid for being a Peer Adviser?

Payment for NSO Peer Advisers is $500 per quarter. Peer Advisers report directly to the Coordinator for New Student Orientation & Parent Affairs in the Department of Student Development (Student Affairs).

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What is expected of Peer Advisers?

Peer Advisers will:

• Plan, coordinate, implement, and participate in NSO and Welcome Week activities
• Work closely and communicate effectively with the Coordinator of New Student Orientation & Parent Affairs and new students before, during, and after New Student Orientation
• Work through the academic year to provide opportunities to meet, connect with, and provide information to new student advisees
• Possess excellent written and oral communication skills
• Serve as a positive student representative of UW Tacoma
• Serve as a role model for all students
• Be an enthusiastic, friendly, engaging, and useful resource to new students

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Who is eligible to become a Peer Advisor?

Peer Adviser Eligibility is open to all students who:

• Are going to be a Sophomore, Junior, Senior, or Graduate student for the 2008-2009 academic year;
• Maintain a 2.7 cumulative GPA;
• Are in good standing witht the University

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How can I find out more information and apply to become a Peer Adviser?

You can review the Peer Advising Booklet and download the Peer Adviser Application if you choose to do so. Applications should be emailed to bhliang@u.washington.edu , turned in in-person to MAT 206, or sent via mail or fax to:

Student Affairs Resource Specialist
Box 358403
1900 Commerce Street
Tacoma, WA 98402-3100
Fax Number: (253) 692-4602

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What is the deadline to turn in applications?

APPLICATIONS ARE DUE BY MAY 5, 2008 @ 5:00 PM

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