First-years anticipate MPC application deadline
Sophia Li
Issue date: 1/31/08 Section: Campus News
"I don't think there's any one type of experience (we're looking for)," Bryant said. "The number one thing is a clear interest, why you want to be an MPC."
Soroko named "strong leadership skills" and "the ability to communicate with a diverse body of students" as important characteristics in the selection process. She also called experience engaging in conversation about the "-isms" - such as racism, sexism and classism - "helpful."
"Being an M, it's a lot of work," Bryant said. "Some people, they don't understand what the program does."
Bryant explained that an MPC's job is multifaceted - it includes directing first-years toward the resources available on campus, providing support, helping with the transition from high school to college and being a friend.
Tichavakunda agreed, saying, "They are counselors, but first and foremost, they're friends."
He recalled one night last semester when he was at the hospital with a friend in the emergency room. He said he knew he could call MPCs, even at 1 a.m., and they would help him find a way back to campus.
While the program originated in the 1970s as a "student-driven initiative" staffed by volunteers, over time it has come under "the administrative umbrella" of the TWC, Soroko said. The position now pays about $2,000 a year.
Bryant spoke enthusiastically about her experience as an MPC. She said that through it, she found "a network and community of people who are really dedicated to being critical of the world around us."
"I really don't think I get all of that in some of my classes here," Bryant said.
Soroko named "strong leadership skills" and "the ability to communicate with a diverse body of students" as important characteristics in the selection process. She also called experience engaging in conversation about the "-isms" - such as racism, sexism and classism - "helpful."
"Being an M, it's a lot of work," Bryant said. "Some people, they don't understand what the program does."
Bryant explained that an MPC's job is multifaceted - it includes directing first-years toward the resources available on campus, providing support, helping with the transition from high school to college and being a friend.
Tichavakunda agreed, saying, "They are counselors, but first and foremost, they're friends."
He recalled one night last semester when he was at the hospital with a friend in the emergency room. He said he knew he could call MPCs, even at 1 a.m., and they would help him find a way back to campus.
While the program originated in the 1970s as a "student-driven initiative" staffed by volunteers, over time it has come under "the administrative umbrella" of the TWC, Soroko said. The position now pays about $2,000 a year.
Bryant spoke enthusiastically about her experience as an MPC. She said that through it, she found "a network and community of people who are really dedicated to being critical of the world around us."
"I really don't think I get all of that in some of my classes here," Bryant said.