Family Support Navigators (FSNs) serve as a vital resource and support system for parents, families and supporters of students enrolled at Syracuse University. This is a paid position for undergraduate students at Syracuse University, providing support during Summer Family/Supporter Orientation.
Students interested in becoming a Family Support Navigator must meet the following qualifications.
- Be a full-time Syracuse University undergraduate student.
- Maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5.
- Must give permission to verify good standing through Community Standards.
- “Good standing” includes a requirement that all matters pending before the University Conduct System have been fully and finally resolved. This includes, but is not limited to, full satisfaction of any sanctions imposed. Good standing includes up to the disciplinary status of “Disciplinary Warning.”
- Must be on campus for the Spring 2026 semester.
- Must be able to attend the trainings and events as outlined below.
- Have no work or co-curricular conflicts during any of the orientation session dates.
- Application Deadline: Friday, November 21, 2025 at 4 p.m.
Welcome and Orientation
- Extend a warm welcome to new families and supporters, fostering a sense of belonging within the Syracuse University community.
- Welcome and check in families and supporters for orientation sessions.
- Facilitate group conversations and social activities with families and supporters.
- Share personal stories and resources to support families through panel discussions and informal interactions.
- Assist with tabling at an information desk and provide digital communication throughout the summer.
- Family Support Navigators will be expected to be on campus and fully prepared to participate in person in mandatory training from June 28 – July 2.
In addition, training will take place weekly during the spring semester dates as follows:- Every Tuesday evening between January 20 and April 7 (except March 10 – Spring Break) from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- FSN Leadership Retreat is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, January 31
from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Participate in four (4) two-day and one (1) one-day Family/Supporter Orientation sessions in July:
- July 6-7
- July 9-10
- July 13-14
- July 16-17
- July 20
- Write/produce communications for the Orange Family Connection portal to communicate with new families under the guidance of Parent and Family Services staff.
- Engage in virtual sessions throughout the summer to introduce families to campus life and available resources.
Resource Guidance and Support
- Assist new families in becoming acquainted with campus resources, facilities, terminology and online systems to facilitate their understanding and ease their transition into the University community.
Event Support
- Act as a welcoming host during orientation sessions, offering guidance, support and information to families attending these events.
- Facilitate small groups for families and supporters and engage in impactful conversations.
Additional Responsibilities
- Undertake other duties as assigned by the Parent and Family Services staff, which may include special projects, administrative tasks or event coordination.
- Competitive pay at $18 per hour. Federal Work Study (FWS) is not required, but FWS funds will be used if you have an FWS award in your financial aid package.
- Professional development opportunities.
- Uniform and gear (i.e., shirt, backpack, name tag, etc.).
- On-campus housing provided during training and orientation sessions.
- Meals provided during training and July orientation sessions.
- Opportunities to make lifelong friends on the team and make connections with new students, faculty, staff, alumni and families/supporters.
Information Sessions
Catch one of our virtual information sessions to learn more about the Family Support Navigator role and the Parent and Family Services team. Click the date and time below for the Zoom links.