Program Leaders

Complex Problems Program Leaders are undergraduate students with at least sophomore standing (30 credit hours or more) and part-time student staff members, and their role is critical to the success of the Complex Problems program. Each Program Leader (PL) serves as a mentor to new AU students, helping them to integrate learning experiences both inside and outside of their Complex Problems seminar. 

All PLs can expect to:

• Attend and participate in their Complex Problems seminar.
• Have regular meetings with program faculty and staff.
• Plan and participate in co-curricular activities.
• Be available to support students socially and academically.

Hiring for Spring 2025

The application for Spring 2025 is now CLOSED. If you are interested in serving as a Program Leader for Fall 2025 you can reach out to Complex Problems Program Coordinator, Reilly Simmons, at rsimms@american.edu.

Learn More

Check out the videos made by current Program Leaders for answers to frequently asked questions from students who want to apply. 

What Are The Perks?

Fun and Friends

• Mentorship of new AU students by giving advice and guidance during their first year of college.
• Collaboration with other program leaders and make friends along the way.
• Expansion of knowledge by experiencing a unique seminar and exploring the diverse perspectives of the students and class materials.
• Exploration of DC with the students.

Resume and Skill Building

• Facilitation - helping to moderate class discussions
• Event Planning - coordinating co-curricular activities for the seminar
• Budgeting - managing available funds
• Communication - connecting students with faculty and campus resources; working closely with faculty and staff
• Conflict Management - mediating issues inside and outside the classroom
• Time Management - balancing work and study

What Makes a Good Program Leader?

There is not one type of person who fits this role. 

Successful Program Leaders are committed to leadership, community engagement, and role modeling; and are enthusiastic, organized, efficient, and reliable.