Commuter Connector (SMC Student Only) in Spartanburg, South Carolina at Spartanburg Methodist College
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Job Description
Location: Spartanburg, SC
Employee Type: Student
Job Category: Commuter, Mentor, Programming
Required Degree: NONE
Manage Others: No
Description
The Commuter Student Peer Connector helps first-year commuter students build community and engage in campus life from the start of their college experience. This role focuses on increasing participation in campus events, strengthening students’ sense of belonging, and helping commuters feel connected early in the semester.
Key Responsibilities
Build early relationships with first-year commuter students and help them feel connected to campus
Conduct outreach through tabling, events, informal check-ins, and digital communication
Promote and encourage attendance at campus programs, with a strong emphasis on Initial X (a daily event series during the first 10 weeks of the semester) and other commuter-focused initiatives
Plan or co-host commuter-focused programs and initiatives, including Commuter Appreciation Week
Help students navigate campus resources (advising, wellness, financial aid, tutoring, transportation, etc.)
Share practical strategies for balancing academics, work, and family responsibilities as a commuter
Serve as an approachable peer contact for support, questions, and connection
Partner with staff and student leaders to strengthen first-year commuter engagement efforts
Represent the college with professionalism, inclusivity, and strong communication
Required Qualifications
Currently enrolled student in good academic standing
Current commuter student
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment
Reliable, organized, and able to manage time effectively
Ability to work with diverse student populations
Interest in student success and engagement
Time Commitment
Approximately 5 hours per week during the first 10 weeks of the semester
Occasional evening or event-based hours may be required
Training & Supervision
Required initial and ongoing training provided
Supervised by a professional staff member within Student Affairs or related unit
Monthly team and individual meetings
Learning Outcomes
Through this role, the Commuter Student Peer Connector will develop:
Leadership and communication competencies
Professional communication and collaboration experience
Knowledge of campus systems, student support practices, and referral practices
Cultural competency and advocacy skills
Peer mentoring and facilitation experience
Empathic listening and peer support skills
Confidence working with diverse student populations
Key Responsibilities
Build early relationships with first-year commuter students and help them feel connected to campus
Conduct outreach through tabling, events, informal check-ins, and digital communication
Promote and encourage attendance at campus programs, with a strong emphasis on Initial X (a daily event series during the first 10 weeks of the semester) and other commuter-focused initiatives
Plan or co-host commuter-focused programs and initiatives, including Commuter Appreciation Week
Help students navigate campus resources (advising, wellness, financial aid, tutoring, transportation, etc.)
Share practical strategies for balancing academics, work, and family responsibilities as a commuter
Serve as an approachable peer contact for support, questions, and connection
Partner with staff and student leaders to strengthen first-year commuter engagement efforts
Represent the college with professionalism, inclusivity, and strong communication
Required Qualifications
Currently enrolled student in good academic standing
Current commuter student
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment
Reliable, organized, and able to manage time effectively
Ability to work with diverse student populations
Interest in student success and engagement
Time Commitment
Approximately 5 hours per week during the first 10 weeks of the semester
Occasional evening or event-based hours may be required
Training & Supervision
Required initial and ongoing training provided
Supervised by a professional staff member within Student Affairs or related unit
Monthly team and individual meetings
Learning Outcomes
Through this role, the Commuter Student Peer Connector will develop:
Leadership and communication competencies
Professional communication and collaboration experience
Knowledge of campus systems, student support practices, and referral practices
Cultural competency and advocacy skills
Peer mentoring and facilitation experience
Empathic listening and peer support skills
Confidence working with diverse student populations