Discovering work opportunities on campus
After adjusting to living on my own for the first time, the rigor of college courses, and making new friends, I wanted to begin making my mark on the Gettysburg community by getting a job on campus. The opportunity to work on campus actually came when I was least expecting it.
My friends and I always go to events on campus - WINGO (wings and bingo) and the Swing Dance were our favorites - but this one was a little different. I attended an off-campus roller skating trip with the Office of Student Activities and Greek Life (OSAGL) with my friends. Members of the student staff, Tess Pietila ’22 and Antoinette Chango ’24, were so excited about their work and encouraged me to apply for a position. Their enthusiasm sparked my interest so much that the next morning I looked up the job information on Handshake, which is the College’s hub for on-campus jobs.
Teaming up with the Center for Career Engagement
To begin the application process, I booked an appointment with the Center for Career Engagement (CCE). I met with the professional staff who reviewed and edited the resume I had drafted in high school. They also taught me how to write a cover letter and went over some of the other things I needed for my application. After I had all that knowledge under my belt, I finished filling out the rest of the paperwork and submitted my application to OSAGL. I was feeling relieved, but nervous about applying for this new job.
A few days later, I heard back that I had been selected for an interview. I reached out to CCE for interview tips and had my interview with Associate Director of OSAGL Paige Cook over winter break. I definitely felt more confident about the interview process after working with CCE and a few days later, I found out that I had gotten the job as a student programming coordinator!
Creating a ‘home away from home’
As a student programming coordinator, my responsibility is to help plan and facilitate all of the activities that are run by OSAGL. My favorite events are Midnight Madness, a late night activity with karaoke and mozzarella sticks; a Super Bowl watch party; and International Food Fest, where you can try foods from all over the world.
One of my favorite parts about this experience has been getting to know peers from all over the campus community. I love seeing everyone being involved on campus and having fun with their friends. It gives Gettysburg that “home away from home” feel. I have also cherished the friendships that I have made with the other student programmers. Being the youngest staff member, they helped me to acclimate not only to my role but also to campus as a whole. Working together allowed us to grow closer and I was able to make friends in all classes and majors across campus in my first year.
I gained so much experience, both personally and professionally, by working on campus this past year that I decided to work over the summer as an Admissions tour guide to share my love for Gettysburg with prospective students.
Learn more about student employment on campus by visiting the Center for Career Engagement.
Natalie Vancura is a health sciences and public policy double-major. In addition to her roles as a student programming coordinator and Admissions tour guide, she is president of the Newman Association, a member of Student Senate, a STEM Scholar, and a member of the Pre-Law Club. Over the summer, she planned activities and created promotional materials to advertise events for the Catholic Campus Ministry.
By Natalie Vancura ’25
Photos by Natalie Vancura ’25
Posted: 08/05/22
