A Nov. 20 priority deadline is approaching for students to turn in applications to become a peer instructor for the UNIV 101/201 classes.

The job of peer instructor, according to Julie Edmunds, the graduate assistant for the Orientation and First Year Experience office, is very flexible, allowing students themselves to shape the role.

“[The students] look at you as sort of a mentor,” Edmunds said, noting that some peer instructors become close to the students they’re teaching.

Kelly Smidl , a peer instructor and junior accounting major, also took advantage of mentorship opportunities in the job of peer instructor.

“I try to help them as much as possible with what I can,” Smidl said. Although she has been a peer instructor for two years, Smidl said she plans to be a peer instructor next year.

“I really enjoy trying to help people as much as I can,” Smidl said.

Basic requirements to become a peer instructor include being at least a sophomore and having a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher. Peer instructors are also required to be able to speak on numerous topics, such as time management skills and diversity on a campus.

Edmunds also stressed that knowledge of NIU is essential, because they could be asked any question at any moment.

“Some students know the buildings because their classes are in there. But peer instructors have to know every building on campus,” Edmunds said.

Time commitment to the position is also a factor. Peer instructors will be required to attend every class meeting of their UNIV class, in addition to training sessions and outside meetings with instructors.

One benefit students get from the job is their enhanced capability to network, Edmunds said. Every peer instructor is paired with a faculty member, which can be the basis of a positive relationship. Edmunds said she met her current boss when she was a peer instructor.

Another benefit, Edmunds said, is the impact they will make.

“It’s immensely satisfying to know you’re making a difference to these students,” Edmunds said.

Applications are available on the First Year Connection’s Web site at http://www.orientation.niu.edu/orientation/firstyear_conn/index.shtml.