As a campus tour guide at Sonoma State University, Jennifer Garcia understands the importance of making a good first impression on prospective students and their families. She believes that a positive first impression can have a lasting impact, as demonstrated by a family who recognized her a year after their tour and still felt comfortable approaching her.
For college campus tour guides like Garcia, the goal is to make a personal connection with each tour group and showcase the unique aspects of the university that attracted them as students. To become a tour guide at Sonoma State, applicants must demonstrate a passion for the institution and a willingness to learn. While the tour script and route are predetermined, guides are expected to bring enthusiasm and effort to each tour.
Guides at Sonoma State not only lead one-hour tours but also assist with various tasks such as answering phones, greeting visitors, and preparing gift bags. During busy tour seasons, guides may lead multiple tours in a single shift and must be prepared to adapt to unexpected challenges, such as changing the tour route due to noise or obstacles.
One of the key skills for tour guides is the ability to engage with a diverse range of visitors, including prospective students, parents, siblings, and grandparents. Guides like Olivia Kalogiannis enjoy getting people excited about college and strive to make the campus experience as personable as possible. They are attuned to the different personality types on their tours and adjust their approach accordingly, whether it’s engaging with eager participants or addressing difficult questions from skeptical guests.
While interacting with tour guests, guides like Daniel Beglin and Emily Uhrich aim to present the university in a positive light and provide accurate information to address any concerns. For Beglin, dealing with negative attitudes or tough questions can be challenging, but he remains focused on making the tour enjoyable for everyone. Uhrich, on the other hand, sees her role as a mentor, particularly for first-generation college students who may feel overwhelmed by the college application process.
Former tour guide Sean Kenneally has continued his work in outreach and recruitment for Sonoma State post-graduation, emphasizing the value of a state education in providing accessible opportunities for higher education. His experience as a tour guide has allowed him to connect with prospective students and showcase the benefits of the CSU system.
In conclusion, campus tour guides play a crucial role in shaping the perceptions of prospective students and their families. By making a positive first impression, establishing personal connections, and addressing questions and concerns effectively, guides can influence the decision-making process and contribute to the overall success of the university’s recruitment efforts.
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