Smith College Gold Key

A tour guiding program was established at Smith College in the early 20th century but became more formalized in the the 1930s. The program became known as Gold Key in 1947. The position of Gold Key Guide has been a coveted and presigious one ever since, despite being a volunteer position. Because Guides are volunteers, they are expected to give honest tours that reflect their own personal experiences; there is no script. Tours at Smith, whether for prospective students and parents, new faculty, or the president of the college herself, are unique, individualized experiences. Guides make all the difference in whether a student can picture herself here, so their role cannot be overemphasized. Ultimately, though, Gold Keys choose to give tours because they love Smith, and want to tell other people why :)