Iowa State Student Employees: A Day in Their Life
Working as a student employee while pursuing a degree at Iowa State University is a common yet unique experience for many students. From leading campus tours to proctoring exams or assisting in an office, these jobs offer not only a source of income but also valuable skills and insights into various aspects of university life. Let’s delve into the daily routines of three student employees at Iowa State University, each with their own distinct roles and responsibilities.
Bridget Sullivan: Student Admissions Representative (STARS) Tour Guide
Meet Bridget Sullivan, a sophomore student in management information systems who also serves as a Student Admissions Representative (STARS) tour guide at Iowa State. Her day typically starts with attending classes, grabbing lunch, and then heading to work at the Memorial Union (MU). The convenience of her on-campus job allows her to seamlessly transition from academic pursuits to work responsibilities.
Once at the MU, Bridget gears up for her shift by getting her microphone and mingling with fellow tour guides as they await families for campus tours. Leading groups of prospective students and their families to various campus landmarks, Bridget enjoys engaging in conversations and answering questions, particularly from first-time college students and their parents. It’s these interactions that make her job fulfilling and rewarding.
After wrapping up her tour back at the MU, Bridget clocks out and heads home, having spent another day showcasing Iowa State University to eager visitors from all walks of life.
Samantha Cranstoun: Iowa State Testing Center Team Lead
For Samantha Cranstoun, a junior studying interior design, her role as a team lead at the Iowa State Testing Center offers a different perspective on student employment. Responsible for proctoring exams and managing check-ins and check-outs, Samantha’s job entails ensuring a smooth testing experience for students.
Splitting her time between proctoring duties—such as assisting test-takers with technical issues and preventing cheating—and overseeing the check-in and check-out process, Samantha finds the job both challenging and rewarding. The flexibility of her work schedule allows her to balance her academic commitments while also getting paid to study during slower periods at the testing center.
With a keen eye for detail and a knack for maintaining a calm testing environment, Samantha’s role at the testing center showcases her ability to multitask and provide essential support to her fellow students.
Claire Boswell: Student Office Assistant for the College of Health and Human Sciences
Lastly, we have Claire Boswell, a senior in elementary education, who works as a student office assistant for the College of Health and Human Sciences. Her daily routine involves a mix of administrative tasks, such as responding to emails, maintaining office spaces, and handling incoming calls from prospective students.
In addition to her regular duties, Claire takes on larger projects, such as tracking the employment status of recent graduates from the College of Health and Human Sciences. This role not only hones her organizational skills but also allows her to connect with alumni and build a valuable database for the college.
Despite the occasional busy moments, Claire finds solace in the social aspect of her job, engaging in friendly banter with coworkers and her boss. Her enthusiasm for her position shines through as she navigates the responsibilities of a student office assistant, balancing work with her academic pursuits.
In conclusion, the diverse roles and responsibilities of student employees at Iowa State University offer a glimpse into the multifaceted nature of campus life. From guiding prospective students on tours to ensuring a seamless testing experience or providing administrative support, these students juggle academics and work with grace and determination. Their stories not only shed light on the inner workings of the university but also exemplify the dedication and passion that define the Iowa State community.
