There is no magic formula that we use to determine who becomes a community advisor, but we do take the application process that we use very seriously. Students who are selected are students who excel within that process. Additionally, we look for students who have a strong interest and motivation towards the CA role. While is does not formally factor into the process, students who take steps to show their interest in the role (talking to CAs, talking to ACs, coming to information sessions, reading and reviewing our online materials, etc.) tend to both be better prepared for the process and be students that we remember and recognize when it is time to discuss selection.
In terms of best ways to stand out in the process, we recommend that you put time into your written application and that you have a friend or trusted mentor read over your answers to the short answer questions and that you make an appointment with Hiatt to have your resume reviewed and polished. Staff members place great value on your written work as a means of both figuring out your own writing skills and as a means of understanding your readiness for the role, so don’t rush your answers.
Hiatt can also help with preparation for both individual and group process interviews. You should come to your interview ready to discuss your interest in the CA role, experiences that might be relevant and how you might use your skills and talents in the CA role. Talking to your current CA may help you understand how to best do this. The group interview will consist of group activities that will highlight your ability to work with others. Thinking about how you want to be best represented in a group setting can help here.
We like to say that our teams are ensemble casts, so no one type of person is best suited to become a CA. Highlighting your interest in working with students and being an educator and community builder, as well as your ability to be a team player and good employee, will serve you well no matter who you are.