Peer Helper Program: How my passion became my position as a Social Media Reporter for Carleton’s Athletic Department

Photo taken by Carleton student Lawrence Misheal.

I heard about this position from a marketing professor who recommended it to students in the class. What was great was the fact that there were several different positions to apply to, that tackled different levels of marketing and responsibilities. In addition, there were not very many requirements for the position as the employers understood students were coming out of high school. Within two weeks, I had received a position in a field of study I was passionate about and that I felt knowledgeable in.

“The Peer Helper Program offers such a variety of positions that foster different individuals needs and requirements,” White says.

With respects to the position itself, I work five hours a week, every Sunday and I cover the social media for intramural ball hockey. In my opinion there are several bonuses to this job in addition to the $250 honorarium. Advantages to the programs are the fact that you can work only five hours a week, gain experience in the field you want, and network with individuals at meetings. My intramural of choice, was ball hockey and this was because I played on the Carleton Ravens Competitive ball hockey team. Ball hockey day landed on a Sunday which was convenient for me because I could do all my homework during the morning and afternoon and work in the evening.

In terms of the experience, the social reporter role is responsible for post-game write-ups, live coverage, and content creation. I had the opportunity to take over the Athletics Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts to post and interact with the followers. My favorite part of the experience is seeing followers react positively to a post and sharing it for others to see. This makes me feel as though I am adding value to the marketing team’s initiatives as a peer helper.

This position has enabled me to start applying marketing concepts, which I have learned in class, and see the effects it has on customers/followers. I have also started to learn what works on social media and what does not work. My supervisor, Mitchell Dick, is extremely supportive which has enabled me to capitalize on my weaknesses and garner a greater understanding as to how social media should be used effectively.

My advice to any student thinking joining the program would be to remember no matter which position you choose to apply for within the Peer Helper Program; you get paid, you expand on your knowledge, you apply and acquire new skills and most importantly it is an easy and interesting way to put experience on your resume!