Many believe that to excel as a Tour Guide, you need to be an extroverted, naturally outgoing individual, comfortable in the spotlight and possessing a booming voice. As someone who identifies as an introvert and doesn’t always gravitate towards large groups, the idea of becoming a tour guide initially felt daunting. When an email circulated across campus inviting students to apply for tour guide positions at Dartmouth Admissions, my first thought wasn’t, “This is perfect for me!” However, spurred by friends also applying, I decided to take a chance, albeit with modest expectations. To my surprise, after submitting my application and completing an interview, I was offered the role!
Even my parents, knowing my personality, expressed their doubts about my staying power as a tour guide. Heading into training, conducted virtually in April 2021, I was undeniably nervous. Despite some prior public speaking experience, the prospect of memorizing an hour-long tour route packed with engaging content felt incredibly intimidating.
Debunking the “Tour Guide Personality” Myth
What I quickly learned is that the stereotypical “tour guide personality” is far from a prerequisite. The tour guide trainers, experienced guides dedicated to onboarding newcomers, immediately put us at ease. They emphasized that while the tour route includes specific stops and essential information about Dartmouth, the delivery is highly personalized. Visitors are guaranteed to receive key facts about the institution, but each tour guide is encouraged to weave in their unique experiences and campus involvements. This approach paints a vibrant, multi-faceted picture of Dartmouth life through the personal lens of a student, moving beyond a mere recitation of statistics. We were also empowered to present an honest portrayal of our Dartmouth journey, including challenges, if we felt comfortable. The core aim of a campus tour is to offer prospective students a genuine glimpse into campus life, acknowledging that college, in reality, can be demanding in various ways. Training underscored that the most impactful tour is authentic, not artificially positive.
Personalized Training: Finding Your Authentic Tour Guide Voice
Following the initial anxieties of training, stepping into my first “real” tours was still nerve-wracking. No matter how extensively you prepare for potential questions, some will inevitably catch you off guard. It took a few tours to find my rhythm, learning to think on my feet and provide helpful responses even when I didn’t have all the answers. This ongoing process of learning and adapting, even after giving my 70th tour recently, remains genuinely rewarding.
A view down a book-filled aisle in the library stacks
Speaking of reflection, although not a tour stop due to its quiet atmosphere, the Baker Stacks in the library are a personal sanctuary on campus, located just moments from a designated tour stop. During my first year, I often found myself journaling on the top floor, the tranquility and view providing the ideal setting for contemplation, both academic and personal.
The Unexpected Benefits: Skills and Personal Growth as a Tour Guide
In this instance, I proved my parents wrong; becoming a tour guide was indeed something I embraced long-term! Beyond expanding my knowledge of Dartmouth’s diverse programs and corners of campus, it’s become a valuable opportunity to reflect on my own evolution through the eyes of prospective students, mirroring my position from years ago. My perspectives, ambitions, and activities have undergone significant transformations during my time here. While much of the tour route and factual information remains consistent, my delivery has continuously evolved, shaped by the different academic, social, and extracurricular phases of my Dartmouth experience.
A Journey of Self-Reflection: Seeing Your College Experience Through New Eyes
Whether Dartmouth is your destination or not, I wholeheartedly encourage you to consider applying to be a tour guide at your chosen institution, regardless of whether you believe you fit a stereotypical mold. It’s not only an exceptional avenue for honing your interpersonal abilities and engaging with visitors from diverse backgrounds, but it’s also a potent tool for self-reflection, enabling you to track your personal development during these transformative years.
Why You Should Consider Becoming a Tour Guide
Becoming a tour guide offers a unique blend of personal and professional development. It’s a chance to enhance your communication skills, gain confidence in public speaking, and develop the ability to think quickly and adapt to unexpected situations. More importantly, it’s an opportunity for profound self-reflection and to contribute meaningfully to your institution by welcoming and informing the next generation of students. If you’re looking for a role that is both challenging and deeply rewarding, consider taking the leap and applying to be a tour guide.
