Summary, Scope, and Responsibilities
Junior Advisors (JAs) are paraprofessional representatives of the Office of Residence Life who play a vital role in shaping the residential experience at Bates. Because life in the residence halls and houses is central to the College’s mission to educate the whole person, JAs help create supportive communities that foster student growth and wellbeing.
The primary responsibility of Junior Advisors is to assist incoming first-year students as they transition to campus life by building socially just, inclusive residential communities. JAs facilitate opportunities for social connection, meaningful dialogue, holistic wellness, and intellectual engagement beyond the classroom. They also support residents in balancing their responsibilities.
Junior Advisors collaborate closely with campus partners – including Facility Services, Environmental Health and Safety, Campus Safety, and Residence Life – to maintain residential spaces that are welcoming, inclusive, and functional for all. They actively educate residents about community expectations and the skills needed to contribute positively to their living environment.
At their core, Junior Advisors embody the values of inclusive community, growth, curiosity, and reliability. In their role, they serve as peer educators, mentors, mediators, department liaisons, and role models – helping to foster living environments that reflect positive wellness perspectives and respond to student needs.
The Basics
Department:Housing and Residence
Supervisor:
Cole Taylor
Office Location:
Chase Hall, 001B
Email:
ctaylor3@bates.edu
Hours:
5
Workers:
40
Qualifications, Requirements, and Responsibilities
Responsibilities
- Complete all Monthly Reflection Forms by the published deadlines.
- Attend all pre-term staff training sessions.
- Participate in monthly Residence Life All-Staff Meetings (first Monday of each month, 7:00–8:30 PM).
- Attend at least (1) one JEDI-focused training or event per academic year to support inclusive community-building.
- Facilitate (4) four community programs per semester (approximately one per month) to engage residents and strengthen community.
- Complete all associated program documentation, including Program Proposal, Program Evaluation, and funding forms.
- Conduct (1) one building walkthrough per week to check signage, submit facilities requests, and engage with residents.
- Attend at least (1) one ResLife Building Block Workshop per semester to develop relevant skills.
- Participate in formal reflection conversations, including a Mid-Year and End-of-Year session with the Area Coordinator.
- Meet regularly with your Area Coordinator while classes are in session for support, guidance, and mentorship.
- Attend bi-weekly Area Meetings, co-facilitated by your Team Leader and Area Coordinator, to stay informed, collaborate, and support the team.
Requirements
- Must be a rising sophomore, junior, or senior at Bates College.
- Willingness to live in a First-Year Center (FYC) for the full academic year.
- Maintain good academic standing throughout the term of service.
- Be in good standing with the Office of Community Standards.
- Demonstrate a strong interest in community building, peer support, and residential leadership, with a
focus on supporting first-year students.
- Show a commitment to holistic student support and peer mentorship.
- Demonstrate dedication to anti-racism, inclusion, accessibility, and equity within the residential
community.
- Possess strong interpersonal communication skills, or a willingness to develop and strengthen them.
- Availability for all required training sessions and readiness to fulfill the full scope of position
responsibilities.
Reporting
Reports to: Area Coordinator
Works Closely with: Students, peers, campus partners, etc.
Working Conditions
N/A