What is SummerPreview?

SummerPreview is an early-start, residential program for accepted Appalachian students to start college early and earn six semester hours of graded academic credit in the relaxed and inviting atmoshphere of summer school. Accepted students enroll in Freshman Seminar (US 1150) and one other academic course during second summer session. The program offers opportunities to make connections with faculty, discover college expectations, develop college-level learning skills, and discover Boone's amazing surroundings. Check out the SummerPreview website for more information.

What is a Summer Peer Leader?

Just like Fall Peer Leaders, Summer Peer Leaders are successful upper-class students who are involved in campus life and have an outstanding academic track record. They attend all sessions of their assigned Freshman Seminar class and assist in the planning and implementation of the course content. Additionally, Summer Peer Leaders live in the residence hall (Doughton) with SummerPreview students and plan some evening and weekend activities. They also take one summer school class so that they can effectively role model good study habits and behaviors. Summer Peer Leaders are paid $1,000.00 plus room and board. Tuition for the summer school class is not covered as a part of this package.

For anyone interested, there will be a Student Leadership Fair on Wednesday, January 24, 11:00am-3:00pm in the Plemmons Student Union (room to be determined). We will also be holding a Peer Leader Information Session on Wednesday, January 31, 6:30pm-7:30 in the MacRae Peak room of the Student Union.

In preparation for the position, new Peer Leaders are required to attend Peer Leader Training. This year's training session will take place Friday, March 30, 4:00pm-8pm and Saturday, March 31, 9:00am-4:00pm. All materials and meals will be provided.

What kinds of things have Summer Peer Leaders done in the past?

Each Freshman Seminar instructor and Peer Leader relationship is unique. There is no one formula for success. Both the Peer Leader and instructor determine the ways in which Peer Leaders will contribute to the success of the class. Additionally, Summer Peer Leaders have other responsibilities outside of the classroom. A list of the most common tasks that Summer Peer Leaders undertake includes:

• Facilitating group discussions (especially about such topics as relationships, alcohol, ASU specific issues)
• Reading and responding to journals/admit cards
• Relating personal experiences
• Being available to students in the residence hall
• Attending service projects with students
• Sponsoring evening/weekend activities
• Attending outdoor trips such as whitewater rafting, rock climbing, hiking or caving
• Sharing ways in which they have been successful (for example, the ways they take notes, study for tests, write papers, etc.)
• Modeling appropriate behavior and civility
• Organizing out-of-class activities (cultural events, trips, meals)

Benefits of Being a Summer Peer Leader:

• $1,000.00 plus room and board
• Experience in leadership, facilitating discussions, and planning a successful learning environment for others
• Accomplishment of performing a public/university service for its intrinsic value
• Written reference for future job applications
• Intrinsic satisfaction in helping Appalachian freshmen become a part of the ASU Family
• Improved communication skills
• Resume builder

Peer Leader Selection Criteria:
Preference will be given to Appalachian students who have demonstrated the following:

• Interest in helping fellow students be successful
• Academic success at Appalachian measured by a minimum GPA of 2.8
• History of involvement in campus life, preferably in positions of student leadership
• Sensitivity to and interest in issues of diversity
• Enthusiasm for the University, its students, staff, faculty, and academic and co-curricular life
• Willingness and ability to model appropriate behaviors, goal setting, etc., for new students
• Willingness to encourage other students to achieve the ideals suggested by Appalachian's Mission Statement
• Achievement of minimum of junior standing by fall semester