Frequently Asked Questions

How can I get more information about the FIG Leader position?

The easiest way to get more info is to peruse the rest of this website, but feel free to contact us with any additional questions you may have at (206) 616-7232 or figs@u.washington.edu. If you'd like to stop by the office, we are located in Mary Gates Hall room 191.

What characteristics are you looking for in FIG Leaders?

There is no single type of FIG Leader; instead we are looking for students with a broad range of experiences and interests. We want our team of FIG Leaders to represent the diversity of the students and staff at the UW. The most important characteristic we are looking for is a commitment toward supporting new students in their transition to campus.

Where can I get a FIG Leader Application?

There is a downloadable application in PDF format available on this webiste, but you can also pick up an application at the Gateway Center front desk, the EOP Advising Center front desk, and at the Ethnic Cultural Center (ECC) front desk.

How long is the FIG Leader commitment?

FIG Leaders are trained during spring quarter, attend training at the end of summer and teach Gen St 199 during autumn quarter. We also have an intensive summer training option available for students who are going to be studying abroad during spring quarter. If you are interested in summer training, it is important to note this on your application.

Can you describe the time commitment during autumn quarter?

FIG Leaders are responsible for teaching 9 1-hour training courses during autumn quarter, as well as facilitating two group excursions for the class. In addition, FIG Leaders spend time preparing for each lesson outside of class. Finally, Peer Instructors attend a concurrent training class that meets every other week for one hour throughout the quarter.

When is the deadline for applying to be a FIG Leader?

5:00pm on February 4th, 2008.

What is the FIG Leader selection process like?

1. Following the FIG Leader paper application deadline, First Year Programs will review applications and make selections for entrance into the prospective FIG Leader training course.
2. All Prospective FIG Leaders will be required to attend a 2 hour Introductory Meeting at the end of winter quarter, and then will take a 3-credit training course throughout spring quarter. This course will meet at a variety of times throughout the week and will meet once a week for 2 hours.
3. Final selections for FIG Leader positions will be made at the end of spring quarter following the training course. Each year we hope to assign each student a FIG and do not intend on making any cuts during the training course.

Our hope is to make the FIG Leader selection process as transparent as possible, so please contact us with any questions or concerns.

Is there a commitment for FIG Leaders during Dawg Daze?

FIG Leaders are required to attend a Pre-Quarter training day the Friday before the start of school, as well as participate in Freshman Kick-off activities the Sunday prior to the start of school. Training is intended to refresh FIG Leaders about upcoming events and to debrief Dawg Daze activities. The Freshman Kick-off will provide Leaders with an opportunity to meet their students before the start of the quarter.

Should FIG Leaders take a full-time course load while teaching?

FIG Leaders can earn up to six credits for the entire experience; three for spring training and three for teaching during autumn quarter. While many FIG Leaders do full schedules during both quarters, it is important for them to be aware of the additional coursework and time commitments. During autumn quarter especially, we recommend that FIG Leaders try to avoid registering for courses that will be especially difficult or time-consuming so that they are able to dedicate adequate time to all of their various commitments both within and outside of the FIG program.

How are FIG Leaders trained?

FIG Leader training takes place in four phases:

1. The initial 2-hour Introductory meeting at the end of winter quarter clarifies expectations for the FIG Leader experience.
2. Leaders are enrolled in a 3-credit course, General Studies 470: Peer Instructor Practicum.
3. Pre-Quarter Training prior to the start of autumn quarter.