Program Mission
The purpose of the Eco-Advisor program is to foster environmental and social justice literacy in the campus community and to translate that understanding in to more sustainable behavior. Eco-Advisors will gain an understanding of specific sustainability issues, models and techniques for community change, practical experience in project implementation, and leadership development. Through the Eco-Advisor program, the Zilkha Center for Environmental Initiatives hopes to foster ongoing environmental and sustainability leadership within the student body, and to give students experience and skills that can be applies to careers in the environmental and sustainability fields.
Structure
Up to five Eco-Advisors will be selected at the end of the spring semester with a few spots being held until the beginning of the fall for incoming first-years. Selection will be based on demonstrated interest in and enthusiasm for environmental and social justice issues. We desire a diverse group, and actively seek underclassmen, students from underrepresented groups, and a gender balance.
Eco-Advisors will have weekly readings and/or media viewings assigned. Weekly discussion groups will be lead by Zilkha Center staff, but may be transitioned over the course of the semester to the Eco-Advisors, with responsibility for discussion leadership rotating every week. A strong emphasis will be placed on peer-to-peer learning. Occasional field trips (no more than one per semester) and chances to meet with local sustainability professionals will give the Eco-Advisors the opportunity to interact with sustainability issues beyond Williams College.
Over the semester, we will have two different areas of focus (potential topics are climate change, food/agriculture, water, environmental justice). In addition to the subject areas, readings and discussions throughout the semester will involve environmental psychology, techniques for behavior change, community based social marketing, and institutional structure and decision making.
We will meet as a group twice a week with one day being dedicated to discussing readings and the other day being more project focused. The remaining Eco-Advisor time will be focused on implementation of projects or outreach programs related to the area of focus. The Eco-Advisors as a group will be encouraged to maintain a regular presence in the campus culture, through tabling, posters, social media, and other methods. Eco-Advisors will also act as resources for other student groups implementing sustainability programming or attempting to make their events more sustainable.
Hours and Pay
The Eco-Advisors will be paid a stipend of $630 per semester. Hours per week will vary depending on projects, but the average should be around five per week, including weekly meetings, readings, and project implementation.
To learn more about the Zilkha Center, visit our website and our facebook page.
To learn more about Eco Advisor, visit the EA webpage.
To apply, fill out the application and email a 1-2 paragraph cover letter – in the text of your email – to Postyn explaining your interest in the position.
Applications are due Sunday September 13, 2015 at 5pm.
For applicants who submit materials on time, interviews will be scheduled for the week of September 14.
Megamenu Social