Student recruiters have two things on their minds: avoiding all curbs and stairs as they walk backward and, more importantly, telling future students about the Auburn family.
Student recruiter applications are available, along with the opportunity to become an Auburn ambassador and spread knowledge about Auburn's traditions.
Applications are due Feb. 25 at noon in the Quad Center. Students turning in applications will also sign up for a first-round interview.
"It's a great experience for someone who loves Auburn," said Taylor Brown, sophomore in biomedical sciences and current student recruiter. "It helps you learn all of the facts and interesting stories about the University."
The organization is made up of 60 volunteer students who are selected through a competitive interviewing process.
"Of course we hope that every student we come in contact with will want to apply to become an Auburn student," said Jordan Holladay, junior in public relations and vice president of outreach for student recruiters. "But if we can help make their college decision more clear for them, then we have done our job and shared our love of Auburn along the way."
Holladay said one of his favorite aspects of being a student recruiter is helping students make such an important decision in their lives.
"Deciding where you will attend college is one of the most important decisions that you will ever make," Holladay said. "Student recruiters have the wonderful opportunity to help prospective students and their families decide if Auburn University is that perfect fit."
Student recruiter Gabrielle Hoyt, junior in public relations, said her tour of Auburn as an incoming freshman solely made her decision to come to Auburn.
"The thing I enjoy most about being a student recruiter is when I hear from someone that they weren't really considering Auburn before my tour and how much I changed their perspective," Hoyt said. "It's so great to know I have positively impacted Auburn's future."
Student recruiters not only cater to prospective students at Auburn, but also assist admissions advisers at college fairs throughout the Southeast.
Being personable, dedicated and comfortable speaking in front of a crowd are qualities needed in a student recruiter, and potential student recruiters must be devoted and passionate about Auburn University.
"Through our tours and conversations we are able to share our personal experiences at Auburn as well as information about what services Auburn University offers," Holladay said.
Holladay said he and other student recruiters find great pride in making a difference to the families that come visit and the students who decide to attend Auburn after their tour.
"Most of all, I have enjoyed meeting all the families who come to Auburn to visit," Brown said. "It's amazing how many people come for tours who have never even heard of 'War Eagle.'"
Holladay saw a family on campus to whom he had given a tour the past summer. Not only did they recognize him and remember his stories, but the student chose to attend Auburn.
"I was ecstatic to find out that the student had chosen to attend Auburn in the fall," Holladay said. "Knowing that my tour played a part in their college decision and compelled them to visit the campus once again helped me remember how lucky I am to be in the position to represent the University that I love."
Holladay said being a student recruiter becomes a lifestyle.
"I even find myself walking backward on accident when I'm talking with my friends," Holladay said. "I guess once you become a student recruiter, the experience never leaves you."
Informational meetings will be held at 8 p.m. Feb. 16 in Room 2107 of the Student Center and at 8:30 p.m. Feb. 22 in Room 2222.
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