STUDENT SERVICE ASSOCIATES OVERVIEW AND APPLICATION GUIDELINES

History

The Student Service Associate (SSA) program was designed to improve and supplement regular Counseling Department service delivery with the use of peer mentors. SSAs are trained paraprofessionals who guide fellow students with regard to college resources, services and procedures. SSAs act as liaisons between staff and students, provide outreach to diverse student groups, and serve as positive role models campus-wide. In addition to serving the college, SSAs gain skills and knowledge that benefit them both personally and professionally. Lane Community College’s Student Service Associate (SSA) program has been in effect since the 1970’s and serves as a model for programs throughout the state.

Student Service Associate Roles and Responsibilities

1) Assist students and community members in Career and Employment Services (CES):

• Assess users’ needs to determine appropriate resources and services
• Explain services and refer to other campus departments or counselors/advisers when appropriate
• Help locate resources and information on careers, occupations, majors, colleges, scholarships, job search skills, etc.
• Demonstrate and coach individuals on computer programs such as CIS and WinWay Resume
• Assist job seekers in navigating employment resources, including Lane’s Job Connections
• Help facilitate class visits and large groups tours in CES
• Assist with projects, workshops and special events, i.e. scholarship workshops and career fair
• Participate and/or moderate the Life at Lane blog
• Maintain a professional and organized center, while providing high quality customer service

2) Assist in Enrollment Services and the Counseling Department areas during registration periods:

• Approach students in Enrollment Services lobby to determine appropriate resources and services
• Staff lobby computer stations, helping students use ExpressLane website, troubleshoot registration concerns and assist with class schedules
• Staff bookstore lines to insure students are in appropriate place with necessary documentation
• Help prospective students complete enrollment steps: Admissions, Testing, New Student Information Sessions, Program Orientations, and Registration

3) Other assignments may include: conduct campus tours, assist with summer Student Orientation and Registration (SOAR) sessions, participate in campus-wide projects, and provide outreach to student groups, classes, etc.

Job Requirements

Skills and Knowledge Needed

• Knowledge of Lane procedures, services, and programs (a willingness to learn!)
• Positive attitude toward college in general and Lane in particular
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills:
• good listener
• Willing to reach out and initiate conversation
• Convey encouragement and support
• Ability to ask questions to clarify people’s needs
• Demonstrate openness and empathy
• Convey enthusiasm and motivate others
• Negotiate, problem-solve, and provide feedback with team members
• Ability to work with individuals and groups
• Ability to work with a diverse college population
• Demonstrated flexibility and the ability to work in a busy, fast-paced environment
• Willingness to learn from others, as well as initiative to find information on your own
• High level of motivation to help others
• Commitment to your own success in college as demonstrated by academic performance
• Willingness to learn computer programs and career resources
• Ability to work as an effective team member

Student Service Associate application process is currently closed.  Applications are accepted April of eah year.  Interviews and hiring decisions take place in May and June of each year.  Please check back.

For additional information, contact Christina Salter, salterc@lanecc.edu, 463-5813 or Tammy Simpson, simpsont@lanecc.edu, 463-5296.