Peer Leader: TRIO / Student Support Services
ABOUT THE PEER LEADER PROGRAM:
The Peer Leader Program serves to synthesize the work of these 11 offices into one developmental experience for students’ current and prospective aspirations. These roles not only allow students the platform to work with staff to create programming, resources, and peer support for the campus community but also offer students opportunities to think critically about and commit diligently to their own development and skill attainment.
Who are TRIO Peer Leaders?
TRIO peer leaders help fellow TRIO students thrive at Carleton through a variety of efforts. Peer leaders plan and coordinate activities, mentor first-year students, help TRIO staff develop successful programs, and assist with office duties and data entry.
We are currently accepting applications for 2025-2026. Current first-year, sophomore, and junior TRIO students interested in honing their leadership skills through mentoring and programming development are encouraged to apply. Applications are due by Sunday, April 6, 2025, by 11:59 p.m. CST through Handshake.
TRIO Peer Leader Goals
● Collaborate with campus partners, and academic departments to create a welcoming and inclusive campus community.
● Provide resources and opportunities for students to pursue and reflect on experiences preparing them for their post-Carleton lives.
● Increase awareness of TRIO and socioeconomic differences on the Carleton campus.
● Serve as a positive role model and mentor to students.
● Encourage students to explore and become involved in various curricular and co-curricular activities on campus and in the community.
PL Responsibilities & Expectations (see attachment)
Peer leaders will be asked to assist with additional TRIO projects, including (but not limited to):
● Events added to the TRIO Events Calendar.
● Co-sponsored events with other departments (OIL, ISL, GSC, Dacie Moses, etc.).
● Other TRIO programming (workshops, social/education events, etc.).
● Other professional & student development opportunities.
Community & Belonging
● Assist TRIO first-year students with their transition to Carleton and help create a sense of community.
● Recognize, accept, and demonstrate a personal commitment to each mentee.
● Act as a resource for mentees regarding academics, health, and social life at Carleton.
● Working effectively with students of different racial, ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds.
● Mentor a group of 5-6 TRIO First-Years.
● Advocate for TRIO-related socioeconomic issues at Carleton.
● Arrange programs that celebrate different cultures and special occasions.
● Demonstrate effective cross-cultural communication.
Administrative Tasks
● Create and facilitate programming that is inclusive and welcoming.
● Show up for all required TRIO events, including team meetings, workshops, training sessions, office hours, etc.
● Assist in a variety of tasks, including department communication, event marketing, and administrative work.
● Provide and follow a consistent work schedule of 10 hours per week, including office hours and meetings.
Professional Development
● Each Peer Leader will lead at least one staff meeting per term.
● Actively participate in Peer Leader training to build connections with other offices.
● Role model active participation in TRIO events and activities.
● Returning Peer Leaders will actively facilitate during Fall Training or the Peer Leader Winter Conference.
PL Qualifications & Application Procedure
● Be an active TRIO/SSS participant in good academic standing (i.e., 2.5 cumulative GPA or higher).
● Must be available to work for Fall Term 2025.
Submit a resume and cover letter to TRIO staff.
Your cover letter should be one page. Here are some questions you might want to consider addressing in your cover letter::
- Why do you believe you are a strong candidate for becoming a TRIO/SSS Peer Leader?
- In your own words, how does TRIO/SSS help create a sense of community and belonging in first-generation/low-income students?
- If you were to be chosen as a TRIO/SSS Peer Leader, what ideas do you have to welcome our first years to campus?
Cover Letters should be addressed to:
Neil Winberg
TRIO/Student Support Services
1 North College Street
Northfield, MN 55057
Application Resources
We recommend applicants make an appointment or visit SCA drop-in hours to review application materials before submitting. Appointments can be made with an SCA or a career coach via Handshake.
Carleton is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation regarding this position, email OAR@carleton.edu, contact Sam Thayer (sthayer@carleton.edu, phone number: 507-222-4464) or Elijah Genheimer (egenheimer@carleton.edu, phone number: 507-222-4500).
QUESTIONS
Contact Neil Winberg