Looking for a way to expand your leadership skills, exemplify your academic abilities and boost your resume? Here is a condensed guide of current leadership and award opportunities Syracuse University has available to students!

2027 Senior Class Marshal

The Senior Class Marshal position is for two exemplary Syracuse students graduating in 2027 who represent the spirit and achievement of their graduating class. The students should be accomplished individuals who demonstrate academic excellence and have been greatly involved in Syracuse during their time here. The marshals will be given many unique opportunities in their role, including leading their class during commencement ceremonies, speaking with a senior University administrator to provide feedback on their experience at Syracuse and recommending the commencement speaker. Make sure to review the full Senior Class Marshal description to see the rules for eligibility, application details, role expectations and benefits. Submit your application by Tuesday, Feb. 24, to be considered.

Barnes Center Health Promotion Peer Leader

Barnes Center at The Arch Health Promotion Peer Leaders are the student faces of the Barnes Center, promoting holistic health and wellness for all students. Peer Leaders help facilitate a wide range of programming focused on topics such as substance use, mental wellness and sexual health, as well as overseeing facilities such as the Crowley Family MindSpa and Pet Therapy. If you love all things health and wellness, this position is for you. Be sure to check out the specificities of the role and apply on Handshake by Friday, Feb. 27!

Welcome Week Leader

Welcome Week Leaders support new students during Move-In and facilitate Welcome Week programming and events, creating a fun and memorable first week on campus in August. If you are looking to gain leadership experience, acquire 50 volunteer hours and represent Syracuse University to new students, this opportunity is perfect for you! To apply, all you need is a 2.5 GPA, to be in good standing with Community Standards and have no scheduling conflicts. If you want to learn more about the role, attend an upcoming Welcome Week Leader information session. Make sure to apply by Thursday, March 5, to be considered!

International Student Success Peer Mentor Program

If you’re looking for a mentorship program that offers valuable interpersonal and intercultural communication skills without being overly time consuming, this is your chance. The College of Arts and Sciences and the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs are looking for students to participate in their International Student Success Peer Mentor Program. This position was created as a way to help international students transition to Syracuse and make them feel comfortable. Interested students can apply for the position on Handshake now through Tuesday, March 10.

Internship Funding Award 

Securing an internship is an exciting and important career milestone. However, many internships are unpaid or don’t provide additional funding for travel and living expenses. Don’t fear—Syracuse University Career Services offers an Internship Funding Award for students who may need extra financial support. The award is designed to make internships accessible to all students, despite expenses. Be sure to read the full description of the award on Handshake to check for eligibility and application requirements. You can apply anytime between now and Tuesday, June 9!

Goon Squad 

If you’re looking for volunteer hours, an early move-in time and the opportunity to connect with new students, then the Goon Squad is for you! Established in 1944, Goon Squad members greet new students and assist them with moving into their residence halls during New Student Move-In in August. Registration for Goon Squad opens later in the spring semester, so make sure to keep an eye on the New Student Programs website to see when registration opens. 

Finding student leadership opportunities and ways to grow your professional skills doesn’t have to be stressful. Be on the lookout for similar opportunities as they continue to appear. Good luck building that resume, Syracuse!

Written By Mirren Grimason ’29, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs