Note: this post was originally published in May 2022; it was updated and re-published in March 2024 to reflect new application info.
Have you ever considered becoming a Bystander Intervention Training (BIT) program peer trainer? We are hiring, and all eligible applicants (all Homewood and Peabody undergraduates) are encouraged to apply by Friday June 10, 2024.
Here are four reasons to apply to become a BIT trainer.
You can also jump straight to the job description below.
BIT trainers impart useful and applicable skills during sessions, resulting in measurable positive impact on the community. The sessions are run in small, peer–led groups, which has been shown to be one of the best ways to influence community change.
Since all new students are required to attend the BIT program, trainers have the opportunity to impact the campus norms around GBV on a large scale.
These changes in perceptions and in confidence to respond to instances of violence have real-world implications and serve to make out community safer, more inclusive, and accessible to all.
“I joined BIT to be part of a group of people that are dedicated to creating the Hopkins community that I want to live in, a community that is inclusive, safe, and with no more occurrences of gender-based violence,” said Danae Baxter, a Class of 2022 KSAS alum who was a trainer for three years. “I learn so much from my fellow peers and Alyse, and now feel more equipped to step in as a bystander.”
Trainers earn $15 per hour. They typically select their own schedules, and can choose to work from three to eight hours a week.
The BIT retreat allows trainers to get to know each other and forge strong connections.
“Every member of the BIT team shows up to support their peers, and will always have each other’s back,” Karnika Mehrota, a Class of 2022 KSAS alum who worked with the program for three years.
Kinsey Tyler, a KSAS Class of 2021 graduate, said being a BIT trainer was her most rewarding college experience.
“It allowed me to explore issues I have struggled with myself, as well as help to improve the culture at Hopkins,” Tyler said. “It is an opportunity I would recommend to anyone with a passion for advocacy, community, and support.”
This position will facilitate BIT for undergraduates, JHU’s bystander intervention and gender-violence prevention training.
Prior to start, trainers will gain knowledge about gender violence and in-depth facilitation/training skills. Trainers will teach peers to be effective bystanders against GBV, including sexual and intimate partner violence, stalking, and sexual harassment.
Previous knowledge of and experience with gender violence prevention is preferred but not required.
Positive energy, flexible schedules, good communication skills, and desire and willingness to train large and varied groups of peers required. This position complements studies in psychology, sociology, public health, anthropology, and gender and women’s studies but any undergraduate student can apply.
Since this is a paid position, trainers will be expected to work three to eight hours per week, which includes fulfilling program requests and attending an initial 24-hour intensive training (spread to multiple days, depending on availability).
Applications close on Friday June 10, 2024. Use this form to apply.
Please contact Alyse Campbell (alyse@jhu.edu) and/or Maggie Lewis (mlewis95@jhu.edu), with any questions about the program or the application process.