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

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

• Assess users’ needs to determine appropriate resources and services
• Explain services and refer to other campus departments or counselors/advisors when appropriate
• Help locate resources and information on careers, majors, degrees, colleges, scholarships, 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 group tours in CES
• Assist with projects, workshops and special events, i.e. scholarship workshops and career fair
• Maintain a professional and organized center, while providing high quality customer service

Other assignments may include: conduct campus tours, assist with summer Student Orientation and Registration (SOAR) sessions, assist with other Student Service departments during peak times, 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
• Positive attitude toward college in general and Lane in particular
• Willingness to learn from others, as well as initiative to find information on your own
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills:
• Willing to reach out and initiate conversation
• Abilty to convey encouragement and support
• Ability to work with a diverse college population
• Ability to work as an effective team member
• Flexibility as needed to work in a busy, fast-paced environment
• Commitment to your own success in college as demonstrated by academic performance
• Willingness to learn computer programs and career resources

Minimum Qualifications     

• Have completed at least 6 credits at Lane by time of application
• Be enrolled in at least 6 credits spring term
• Enroll in at least 6 credits each term next year (Fall, Winter, and Spring)
• Be in good academic standing with a GPA of at least 2.25 and 66% credit completion rate
• Commit to working 9-15 hours a week for the entire academic year (Fall, Winter, and Spring)
• Attend the mandatory paid retreat (June 15 & 16) and attend paid training (week of August 17-21)

NOTE:  Pending budget approval, SSAs may have the option of working part-time in the Counseling Department from August 24 - September 28 during peak fall term registration.
    

Mandatory Requirements

A two-day paid retreat (June 15-16) and on-campus paid training (August 17-21) are mandatory for SSAs.  In addition, SSAs commit to a weekly meeting on Tuesdays from 2:30-3:50 beginning Fall term 2009.

Student Service Associate application process is currently open. Online applications will be accepted through April 24, 2009. Applications must be submitted by 5:00 PM. Interviews and hiring decisions take place in May and June of each year. 

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