IPC Group Facilitator

The Student Success Office is recruiting 15-20 undergraduate and graduate student volunteers to assist with the execution of programs that support international and exchange students. This primarily entails supporting the International Peer Community but will occasionally include other international student programming initiatives.  

Please note that only successful applicants will be contacted.

Time commitment: 

Successful candidates are expected to participate with a minimum of 25 hours throughout the term

General Responsibilities:  

• Uphold the principles, mission and policies of the Student Success Office and the University of Waterloo.  
• Actively engage with participants during various in-person events. 
• Show enthusiasm and excitement for life at UWaterloo and maintain a positive attitude.  
• Provide information about on-campus services and resources available to students.  

International Peer Community Responsibilities:  

• Foster a safe and welcoming environment where students can make connections and feel a sense of belonging at Waterloo.  
• Be knowledgeable of campus resources that support international students and share when appropriate.  
• Check in regularly with group members to ensure they have adequate support.  
• Host in-person active and/or passive events with a co-group facilitator biweekly for 8-14 student participants in your group, with the expectation of 2 events in total per month.
• Collaborate with your assigned community leader to plan and execute IPC Workshops for students.
• Attend regular meetings with your Community Leader (weekly check-ins, with the team and/or 1:1 meetings).  
• Attend a midterm check-in session held by Assistant Coordinator, International Student Experience and/or Community Leaders.  
• Participate and support Monthly Community Events. 
• Respond to all communication from Group Members, Community Leaders, Co-Volunteers and Program Coordinators within 24 hours.  
• Assist with other International Student Transition programs as required.  

International Student Programming Responsibilities:  

• Lead the planning and execution of biweekly gatherings for participants at the International Peer Community.
• Prepare and answer common questions about social life, opportunities, resources on campus, etc.  
• Assist new students and upper-year students coming to UWaterloo for the first time with navigating UWaterloo’s system and/or resources available both on and off campus.  
• Encouraging student participation and engagement in social activities

Training and Professional Development:

All Group Facilitators must attend a mandatory training session led by the Community Leaders at the beginning of the term. 

Qualifications:  

• Registered as a full or part-time student in good academic standing at the time of hire. 
• Knowledgeable of the first-year international student experience; awareness of the needs of first-year and upper-year international students as well as English Language Learners.  
• Strong organizational skills and quick to respond to student and staff communications.
• Excellent time management skills, capable of managing multiple demands with accuracy and attention to detail.  
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills; comfortable with meeting a variety of new people and holding welcoming conversations.  
• Approachable, supportive, and non-judgmental; possess active listening skills and diplomacy.  
• Knowledgeable about campus services and supports available for students at UWaterloo. 
• Excellent problem-solving skills and sound judgment.  
• Experienced working with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds is an asset.  
• International or cross-cultural experience and/or additional language competencies are an asset.