Become a Peer Advisor

• Current Virginia Tech undergraduate student
• Preferably previous participation in a study abroad program (experience living, working, interning, or completing service-learning abroad; experiences in intercultural engagement; application for a cancelled study abroad program; or similar experience may also be considered in lieu of study abroad)
• GPA 2.5 minimum
• Passionate about study abroad and willing to share your experiences
• Available to work 10 hours per week during the academic year
• Able to commit for a whole academic year (we do not have any semester positions)
• Represent the office in a professional manner with excellent customer skills
• Ability to relate to students from different backgrounds (open minded, sensitive, respectful)
• Possess strong communication skills (diplomacy, listening skills)
• Comfortable with presentations and public speaking
• Self-directed, ability to take initiative
• Detail oriented, organized, flexible
• Good computer skills (Excel, Word)

The main responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Advising (20%)
  • Assist students on an appointment and walk-in basis
  • advise students on study abroad options that best fit their personal and academic needs
  • Provide timely and accurate responses to email and phone inquiries
  • Provide students with information on study abroad policies and procedures
• Office duties (60 %)
  • Front office (greet visitors, answer the phone)
  • Process GEO documents
    
  • File management
  • Update databases (scholarships, visa information, internships, non-VT programs)
  • Conduct online research projects
  • Complete other office duties as assigned
    
• Outreach (20%)
  • Schedule and deliver classroom presentations
  • Assist at GEO events (pre-flight meeting, fall fair, info booths etc.)

This is a student wage position ($15 per hour)

• Mostly office hours (8:00 am – 5:00 pm), with some evening and weekend hours (during events)
  
• Schedules are based on your availability (around your class schedule)
• Employment begins at the start of the fall semester and ends after spring commencement
• There is an option for 1 or 2 incoming peer advisors to start work during the summer  

On average, we hire 5 peer advisors per academic year

Apply by February 20 by sending your completed application and materials to vtabroad@vt.edu. 

The deadline every year is February 20 (by midnight)

• There are 2 interview rounds (first round with current peer advisors, final round with GEO staff)
• If you’re abroad in the spring and selected for an interview, it can be conducted through Skype

All applicants will be notified within 6 weeks after the application deadline

• Shadow training April / May (if you’re abroad in the spring, we will make special training arrangements)
• Mandatory single training session scheduled the Friday before the start of the fall semester
• On-the-job training continues throughout the year