Be A Bridge Leader
Here's your chance to really make a difference at Smith! We will accept applications for the 2013 Bridge Leader team starting in February 2013.
Application
An application will be made available for Bridge Leadership positions in February 2013. Exact dates will be updated here once available.
Interviews
The interview schedule for Bridge Leadership positions will be set in February 2013.
Training
All new and returning Bridge leaders must complete the Bridge leadership training, which requires students to return to campus prior to the start of the program, usually on the Sunday immediately preceding the program start date. The training focuses on leader team planning and preorientation preparations. Although the training is time-intensive, it's a great way to develop your leadership skills—and is also a lot of fun!
Required Skills
The list below includes some of the things we're looking for in potential leaders. Don't panic if you're not an expert in something (or in everything)—that's what the training is for—and returning Bridge leaders serve as great teachers and role models!
- Leadership experience
- Teaching experience
- Enthusiasm
- Responsibility
- Committment
- The perspective of having been a Bridge participant or just a new student at Smith
Do we get paid to serve as Bridge leaders?
Yes, but most, if not all, students do it because they value the opportunity to give back to a program they absolutely love!
Bridge Leader Position Descriptions
House Manager
The Bridge house manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Bridge Preorientation program. The house manager will correspond with the assistant house manager the summer before Bridge training. The house manager organizes room assignments, distributes and collects the keys, and supervises special projects. In addition, the house manager ensures that participants are informed of house and Bridge rules and responds to situations of immediate need.
Assistant House Manager
The assistant house manager organizes transportation, maintains the workshop schedules and distributes evaluations. Additionally, the assistant house manager helps coordinate special projects, among other tasks.
Student Academic Liaison
The student academic liaison (SAL) facilitates the transition to academic life for both Bridge participants and first-year students. During Bridge, the SAL creates and facilitates one workshop session for the entire Bridge class to help first-year students transition to the academic rigor of Smith College. The SAL remains prominent through the academic year, serving as a peer liaison and linking first-year students to resources and academic support on campus.
Bridge Leader
Bridge leaders are responsible for leading a workshop of their own design, supervising program participants in a residential setting, and working with fellow Bridge leaders to create a fun and welcoming atmosphere for the new students. Bridge leaders are the core of the program and are expected to attend all program activities and be available to assist Bridge participants. They are also encouraged to remain in contact with participants throughout the year.
