GCHT Student Involvement

The Global Center on Human Trafficking (GCHT) at Montclair State University offers students a variety of opportunities to make a meaningful impact in the fight against human trafficking. Whether you want to gain hands-on experience, develop leadership skills, or contribute to community outreach and advocacy, GCHT has a role for you.

Student helping hand out name tags at the GCHT Legislative Breakfast Event

Get Involved with the Global Center on Human Trafficking!

"My time volunteering and interning with the Global Center of Human Trafficking has been transformative both academically and personally. Not only have I met wonderful people who provided me with the training and knowledge that consisted of this interdisciplinary study, but they allowed me to participate in vital research, which allowed me to engage in real-world issues. "
– Student Intern

GCHT Intern

  • Overview: Interns work closely with GCHT staff, assisting with projects such as event planning, social media content creation, peer-to-peer education, and community engagement. Internships offer valuable experience for those looking to deepen their knowledge of human trafficking issues and advocacy.
  • No prior experience is required.

Please visit Handshake for available opportunities. For any questions please reach out to Ashlee Martellacci, Student Affairs and Community Engagement Coordinator via email, martellaccia@montclair.edu.

GCHT Student Ambassador

  • Commitment: 1 academic year (weekly 1hr commitment during the semester)
  • Overview: Student Ambassadors serve as peer educators and advocates, helping to raise awareness on campus about human trafficking. Responsibilities include leading workshops, volunteering at GCHT events, and facilitating peer group discussions. Ambassadors also attend bi-weekly check-ins and collaborate with fellow students to promote the GCHT’s mission.

Join a passionate team of student leaders at the Global Center on Human Trafficking (GCHT) dedicated to raising awareness and combating human trafficking. As a Student Ambassador, you’ll develop your leadership and public speaking skills while directly contributing to trafficking prevention and peer education.

The GCHT Student Ambassador Program educates and empowers future leaders to address human trafficking from a human rights perspective. This opportunity allows undergraduate and graduate students at Montclair State University to enhance their understanding of human trafficking by supporting GCHT activities and organizing awareness events on campus.

  • Gain hands-on experience in anti-trafficking advocacy and education.
  • Enhance your resume with practical leadership and professional experience.
  • Develop your leadership and public speaking abilities.
  • Make a tangible impact in your community by preventing and raising awareness of human trafficking.
  • Join a passionate community of student leaders and advocates committed to fostering positive social change.
  • Play a vital role in supporting the Global Center’s work and increasing awareness of human trafficking on campus and in surrounding communities.
  • Build valuable networking connections for your future career.
  • Collaborate with professionals who have lived experiences.
  • Make new friends.
  • Receive a “Certificate of Completion” upon successfully finishing the program

Raising awareness is the crucial first step in preventing human trafficking. Many people are unaware of its scope and various forms of exploitation. To combat this issue, we must understand its true nature, as it can affect anyone, especially vulnerable populations. College campuses include at-risk groups such as first-time students, first-generation students, international students, individuals with disabilities, LGBTQ students, study-abroad participants, visiting faculty and staff, undocumented migrants, and victims of abuse.

Educating these individuals about human trafficking, labor laws, and the signs to look for could make a significant difference. Increased awareness leads to prevention, early intervention, justice, and long-term support for trafficking survivors.

  • This program is open to both undergraduate and graduate students of all majors.
  • Commit to serving one academic year (Fall 2026-Spring 2027).
  • Complete GCHT Student Orientation.
  • Become an HT Peer Discussion Group Leader.
  • Schedule and run at least 1 peer discussion group per semester.
  • Attend bi-weekly planning/check-in meetings with Student Ambassador Advisor.
  • Volunteer at least once a semester for GCHT events.
  • Share GCHT’s social media posts/events.

Characteristics of Ambassadors

We seek volunteers who are passionate about the work of the GCHT. Candidates should be respectful, kind, and professional, exhibiting high integrity (no gossip) while collaborating with experienced experts. The GCHT will provide opportunities for volunteers to engage, but we also welcome students eager to create awareness around human trafficking.

If this sounds like you, apply to join our GCHT Student Ambassador Program today!

For more information about the Student Ambassador Program, please contact: Ashlee Martellacci.

Global Human Trafficking Certificate

This interdisciplinary certificate provides undergraduate students with a multidisciplinary understanding of human trafficking through coursework and hands-on experience. Open to all majors, the program prepares students to advocate, educate, and lead efforts to combat exploitation worldwide.

GCHT Volunteer

Need to complete volunteer hours or interested in getting involved with the GCHT? Please email all inquires to Ashlee Martellacci, martellaccia@montclair.edu.