EOP Summer Program Leader Application Open!

We’re looking for motivated students with demonstrated leadership experience – preferably juniors, or seniors – who thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy working with others, and have a genuine interest in helping students succeed.

The EOP Summer Institute Program Leader plays an important role in welcoming and supporting incoming first-year students throughout the four-week EOP Summer Program. Many of these students are first-generation college students who may be navigating higher education, campus resources, and the transition to college for the first time. Each student brings their own experiences, strengths, and perspectives, and successful leaders must be prepared to meet students where they are.

This position requires patience, cultural awareness, maturity, sound judgment, and strong problem-solving skills. We are looking for individuals who can take initiative, remain composed in challenging or high-demand situations, and make thoughtful decisions that consider both individual student needs and the well-being of the group. Equally important is the ability to work collaboratively, support fellow leaders, and contribute positively to a team.

Interested students are encouraged to apply to be part of the EOP Summer Program leadership team!

Summer 2027 Program Dates: July 5th - July 31st

Benefits

• Earn financial compensation for your contributions during the program.

• On-campus housing and meals included throughout the program.

• Develop and strengthen leadership, communication, problem-solving, and team-building skills.

• Gain valuable mentoring experience while supporting incoming EOP students.

• Build lasting relationships with students, staff, and fellow student leaders.

Who We're Looking For

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Leadership and Initiative: Previous leadership experiences that demonstrate accountability, maturity, and the ability to take initiative and guide others.

• Patience and Understanding: An appreciation for the different experiences students bring with them and an understanding that transitioning to college can be challenging, particularly for students who are the first in their families to navigate higher education.

• Cultural Awareness: The ability to work respectfully and effectively with students from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

• Problem-Solving and Adaptability: The ability to think critically, remain composed under pressure, and work through unexpected or challenging situations.

• Teamwork and Collaboration: An understanding that strong leadership also means supporting peers, communicating effectively, accepting feedback, and contributing to the success of the entire group.

• Sound Judgment and Maturity: The ability to make thoughtful decisions, recognize personal and professional boundaries, and understand when to seek assistance from EOP staff.

• Commitment to Student Success: A genuine interest in helping others, encouraging student engagement, and creating an environment where incoming students feel welcomed, supported, and connected.

Key Responsibilities

• Welcome and Support: Welcome and mentor incoming students, helping establish a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment.

• Leadership and Engagement: Organize icebreakers, team-building activities, and social events that encourage students to build connections and develop a sense of community.

• Program Facilitation: Work collaboratively with EOP staff, faculty, and fellow student leaders to facilitate program activities, workshops, and learning experiences.

• Academic and Personal Mentorship: Encourage students to establish academic goals, develop effective study habits, and become familiar with the expectations of college life.

• Safety and Student Support: Help maintain a safe environment, respond appropriately to concerns or emergencies, and communicate situations requiring additional assistance to EOP staff.

• Role Modeling and Professionalism: Model accountability, respect, and professionalism while maintaining appropriate boundaries and upholding the values of the EOP program.

• Encourage Student Engagement: Promote participation in academic activities, workshops, and extracurricular opportunities while helping students feel connected to the campus community.

• Monitor and Communicate Student Needs: Check in with students, recognize when someone may be struggling or disengaging, and communicate concerns to EOP staff.

• Cultivate Campus Connections: Help students become familiar with campus resources, academic departments, and support services so they feel more comfortable navigating campus independently.

Additional Duties

• Facilitate Group Discussions: Help lead conversations about academic success, college expectations, personal development, and adjusting to campus life.

• Promote Wellness and Belonging: Foster an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, seeking support, and building relationships with their peers.

• Serve as a Liaison: Maintain open communication between incoming students, fellow program leaders, and EOP staff to help address student questions and concerns.

• Support Fellow Leaders: Work as part of a team, share responsibilities, communicate effectively, and contribute to a positive and collaborative working environment.

Ready to lead, mentor, and make an impact? Apply here to become an EOP Summer Program Leader!

For questions, please contact EOP@potsdam.edu