Peer Research Advisors

Here's a job opportunity you don't want to miss!

Are you a student who enjoys working with people? Would you like to enhance your library research skills and improve your academic performance? Become a Peer Research Advisor and learn how you can help yourself and others.

To provide a more welcoming and diverse service environment for students from all backgrounds, the NCSU Libraries has launched an exciting new program. We seek to recruit outstanding undergraduates to serve as Peer Research Advisors.

• What do Peer Research Advisors do?
• Who should apply?
• Why should I become a Peer Research Advisor?
• What do Peer Research Advisors say about the program?
• How do I apply?
• Who can answer questions about the program?
• Why did the NCSU Libraries start this program?

What do Peer Research Advisors do?

Peer Research Advisors:

• Work with full-time librarians at the Reference Desk, offering assistance and teaching basic research skills.
• Participate in the NCSU Libraries' outreach activities around campus, making presentations about library services to student groups, residential communities, and other audiences.

Who Should Apply?

The NCSU Libraries is looking for students who meet the following qualifications and who can commit to the expectations below. Students from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply.

    Required qualifications:

• Academic excellence and desire for continued intellectual growth.
• Desire to learn more about information technology and libraries.
• Good interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work with others to accomplish tasks.
• Enthusiasm for teaching others or helping others to solve problems.
• Good listening skills.
• Interest in and sensitivity to diverse cultures.

    Expectations:

• Commit to working approximately ten hours a week, including evenings and weekends.
• Commit to working throughout the entire semester, except semester breaks and Final Exams.
• Demonstrate professionalism and enthusiasm.
• Arrive at work reliably and punctually.

Why should I become a Peer Research Advisor?

• Gain information literacy skills that will enhance your academic and personal life.
• Increase your technology skills, teaching experience, and customer service skills.
• Become a leader.
• Enjoy a collegial atmosphere and mentoring relationships with top library professionals.
• Gain a unique work experience that will make you stand out in any job search.
• Learn about library and information science as a possible career option.
• Earn a highly competitive salary of $9/hour.

What do Peer Research Advisors say about the program?

Patrice was attracted to the Peer Research Advisor program because it involves technology and research. She finds the work educational and fun. She adds, "I thought I knew it all, but I learn every time I step into work."

Douglas applied to the program to "assist those people who find it difficult to do research in such a large facility." He has enjoyed "every minute" of the program and is "impressed with the enthusiasm and effort that goes into library research."

Carlos likes the library's work atmosphere and the learning opportunities the Peer Research Advisor program provides, and the amount and complexity of library resources impress him. He says, "In my short time here I have learned so much."

How do I apply?

Fill out the online form to apply. New PRAs will start in August 2006.

Who can answer questions about the program?

Amy VanScoy supervises the PRA program. If you have any questions about the program, including questions about applying, send e-mail to amy_vanscoy@ncsu.edu or call 515-5826.

Why did the NCSU Libraries starting this program?

The Peer Research Advisor program has two main goals: to improve library services to students from diverse backgrounds and to recruit a diverse group of people into librarianship.

• Peer Research Advisors not only offer essential research assistance to their peers, but also serve as role models.
• The NCSU Libraries aims to present a more diverse face in its public services, one reflecting the current student body.
• By participating in a continuous training program, Peer Research Advisors will become highly skilled leaders in information literacy who can share techniques and strategies on how to find and evaluate information.
• Peer Research Advisors will have a chance to explore career opportunities in librarianship.

By participating in the program, Peer Research Advisors will be well-prepared to negotiate the knowledge economy.