Faculty & Administrators

How Can I Get Involved in RoadTrip?

Faculty and administrator involvement is crucial to the success of the RoadTrip program.  On RoadTrip, faculty and administrators are known as Compasses. A Compass is a faculty or administrator, whose experience of vocational and personal accomplishments are the foundation for others to navigate their way towards their goals and dreams.  With the assistance of an Atlas (student leader), a Compass guides a small group of travelers (student participants) in their journey to explore their past, present and future dreams. They are a constant inspiration in reminding all travelers of their purpose on this RoadTrip.

Why should I get involved?

• It’s a great way to get to know the students outside of the classroom and your regular work environment.
• Most faculty/administrators find the experience to be very uplifting and energizing.
• Often times, it’s a reminder why we decided to work with college students.The students benefit from hearing about your vocational journey and personal experiences.  Below are comments from the student evaluations (RoadTrip 2007):
  
  “I met lots of awesome faculty members that I had never met on such a deep level and I am so happy to know I can go to them for help.”
  
  “I’ve deepened and formed relationships with faculty/administrators. I understand that they’re people too and they’ve faced problems too. They really do understand.”
  
  “I met my compass and realized I could go to him for anything I needed to talk about. I will definitely go talk to him.”
  
  
• You can bring your family!  Since the retreat takes place during the weekend, we encourage Compasses to bring their families.  It’s a nice little family get away.  Check out the Willow Valley Resort web page www.willowvalley.com. The Office of Sophomore Initiatives will cover hotel and meal expenses.

Time Commitment

• A one-on-one meeting with Director of Sophomore Initiatives. 
• A two hour meeting to learn about RoadTrip mission and Compass responsibilities (usually takes place late fall semester)
• Lunch with Atlas (student leader)
• Pre-trip dinner (Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2012)
• RoadTrip weekend (Jan. 13-15, 2012)
• Follow-up and meetings with RoadTrip participants (highly encouraged, but optional)