But no matter who topples the tower, everyone wins, because the donations benefit all HSU students. And in just four years, student callers have brought in over $1 million.
Donations help fund student scholarships, instructional technology, academic programs and much more. With the current budget crisis, even small contributions can go a long way. “We ask for very do-able amounts and it’s going to make this campus a better place for students,” says caller Jessica Schwab.
The hours that the callers work are flexible to incorporate their busy student schedules. But on most weeknights, the students sit down at their call stations and reach out to HSU alumni and parents and families of current students.
Although they are calling for donations, connecting with the person on the other end of the phone seems to be the most important thing to student callers. “It’s a really fun job. The best part is the conversation,” says caller Julia Reynolds. “I learn a lot about HSU. It’s helping me stay in love with Humboldt.”
It takes a special kind of person to be a good student caller. Most of them will say that a caller has to be comfortable striking up a friendly conversation with strangers. But more importantly, a good student caller is a great listener. And a positive attitude goes a long way.
“Sometimes people don’t want to donate and it can be a downer,” says caller Samantha Langs. “But knowing that you’re directly helping your university, it’s a highlight – it keeps your spirits up.”