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Students: apply to become First Year Composition peer advocates

April 30, 2014

First Year Composition ProgramThe First Year Composition Program, with assistance from the Office of Student Engagement & Experiential Learning, is now accepting applications for peer advocates for fall English 103 classes.

With intensive focus on written communication, critical thinking and information literacy skills, the FYComp program at NIU prepares students to be successful academically and professionally throughout their undergraduate years, leading to career success. Peer advocates assist students in this endeavor by working with ENGL 103 students individually and in groups to engage them in the class and wider NIU communities.

Peer advocates are students who have successfully completed ENGL 103 and ENGL 104, ENGL 105 or the equivalent transfer courses. They work five to eight hours per week during the semester, assisting FYComp students with developing effective study habits, getting involved with groups and events on campus, and making the transition to college. Peer advocates attend at least one FYComp class per week, coordinate and host group sessions, build relationships, follow up with students and act as ambassadors to welcome new students to NIU.

Peer advocates will:

  • attend an initial training meeting in the week before the fall semester starts
  • attend a peer advocate meeting with FYComp leaders once a week
  • attend one meeting of the designated English class per week
  • meet with individuals/small groups from the designated class three hours per week
  • help students in the designated course with tasks including but not limited to the following: brainstorming, time management, study skills, organization, group work/dynamics, referrals to resources, event planning library skills, registration and more.

For more information, call (815) 753-1607 or (815) 753-8154 or email engage@niu.edu.