Everyone knows the important role that candidates play as they seek the positions that are the best fit for them. Everyone knows the important role that employers play as they conduct interview after interview to find the candidates who can make an impact on their respective campuses. A much lesser known role at TPE Onsite is that of the volunteer, also known as the individual in the blue vest who looks like a Walmart greeter. What few candidates and employers know is that the role of a volunteer offers great benefits to anyone—whether a candidate, employer, or just someone who happens to be in the area (or arriving early for NASPA).
Volunteering is a Great Way to Meet People
You never know if you’ll end up on the same staff with a fellow volunteer or end up working for him/her tomorrow or at some point in the future.
Anyone can volunteer for TPE Onsite. You don’t have to be registered for the onsite event to serve as a volunteer. That means that we have first-year graduate students learning about the TPE experience as well as local students and staff from the community. We certainly have candidates and employers who volunteer during their daily break periods in between interviews. Sometimes, we even have onsite event guests who are looking for something productive to do during the day. One thing is for sure: there is a great variety of individuals from all over who all want to help make TPE run as smoothly as possible.
Volunteering is an Opportunity to Leave a Positive Impression on Fellow Colleagues in the Industry
As you get to know your fellow volunteers, employers may learn what candidates are passionate about while candidates learn what certain employers have to offer. It’s not uncommon for candidates to decide to apply for positions a particular institution as a result of the new relationships established while volunteering. This let’s you know that it’s important to stay mindful of how you come across to others; you never know if your fellow volunteer is a candidate who is applying to work at your institution or an employer who is scheduled to interview you later that day.
Volunteering is a wonderful way to become involved in The Placement Exchange
Many TPE committee members, on-site coordinators, and even Ambassadors and interns got their start as a TPE volunteer. Whether you are running mail for employers, hosting a waiting area in the interview hall, or sitting at the Solutions Station, you are making a difference to others—which is what our profession is all about.
Take the first step to serve as a TPE volunteer. Sign up today!
Dr. Cory A. Shapiro has served in a variety of roles in student affairs over the past thirteen years. He is currently the Assistant Director of University Housing and New Student & Family Programs at Arizona State University, a position he has held since June 2006. Cory has held a variety of positions within housing, first-year experience, student leadership, and new student orientation at The University of Arizona, The Ohio State University, and the University of Lancaster prior to his time at Arizona State University. He received a bachelor of science from The University of Arizona, a Master of Arts degree from The Ohio State University, and his doctorate in higher and post-secondary education from Arizona State University.
