Peer-Assisted Learning (PAL) Leaders

Peer-Assisted Learning at the Academic Succes Center, Clemson Univeristy

Information for Prospective PAL Leaders

  • How many PAL leaders are employed each semester?

    We employ around 100 students each semester in the PAL program.

  • What are the benefits of being a PAL leader?

    As a PAL leader, you will:

    • help other students learn and succeed
    • learn about your strengths and abilities as a leader
    • deepen your own comprehension of the subject matter
    • develop skills and knowledge that you will be able to articulate in professional or graduate school interviews.
  • What are the requirements for PAL leader applicants?

    Applicants must have the following:

    • Effective social and time management skills
    • A desire to learn and help others learn
    • An A or B in the course you would like to support. Course grade is just one of many factors that are considered.
    • A cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is recommended, but applicants not meeting this criteria can still apply and discuss their specific situation if invited for an interview.
    • A schedule that allows you to work 10-12 hours each week and enroll in a 1 credit training course during your first semester of employment.
    • A recommendation form completed by a course instructor, advisor, or other professional at Clemson who can speak to your content knowledge in at least one of the subjects you want to support.
    • Effective learning and study approaches to share with others
  • How do I apply?

    To apply, complete the PAL leader application form linked in the purple icon on this page. The application also asks you to request a recommendation form be completed by a course instructor, advisor, or other professional at Clemson who can speak to your content knowledge in at least one of the subjects you want to support. The recommendation form can be found under the purple icon on this page.

  • What can I expect if I'm hired?

    If you are selected for a PAL leader position, you will be contacted by the program coordinator with additional information. You will receive an email about:

    • Employment paperwork - You will need to complete hiring paperwork before you can begin work. The paperwork requires two approved forms of ID, we recommend a driver’s license and social security card.
    • The specific sections of CU1110 that are available for ASC peer leaders
    • Training dates and times - Training is traditionally scheduled on Monday and/or Tuesday before classes begin. Specific dates, times, and locations will be communicated by the program coordinator.
    • Collecting your availability to determine your semester work schedule.
  • What do PAL leaders say about their experience working in the program?

    PAL leaders tell us that they have developed a variety of skills through their work as a PAL leader:

    • Collaboration: “Learning with others benefits you in ways that just studying on your own never would have.”
    • Self-reflection: “By critiquing/reviewing your own performance, you can better create and reach goals.”
    • Communication: “You don't fully understand something unless you can break it down and explain it in its most simple terms”
    • Public Speaking: “I feel much more comfortable speaking in front of large groups.”
    • Critical Thinking: “I appreciate when people question my questions now, instead of just telling me the answer. This facilitation is what makes you think harder and understand the concepts better.”
  • Can I apply to both PAL and ASC Tutoring?

    We encourage applicants to consider both Tutoring and PAL and determine which role best suits their interests and schedules. Each program currently has a separate application process, but you can also ask the person you interview with about the other program as you determine your interest. However, we generally do not allow new leaders to work as a tutor and a PAL leader during their first semester.

For questions about application materials, send an email to clemsonpal@g.clemson.edu or call 864-656-6216.

PAL Leader Application Form Recommendation Form