POSITION DESCRIPTION

Program
An Orientation Leader is an undergraduate who, along with two Student Orientation Coordinators, assists the Office of New Student and Family Programs with the planning and implementation of Orientation and Weekend of Welcome programs at Saint Mary’s College. Orientation Leaders facilitate various aspects of student and parent Orientation programs, manage events, and serve as student representatives of the College. Each Orientation Leader will assist first year students with their adjustment to the college both socially and academically. In order to participate in The Orientation Leader Program, students who are selected must in enroll in section of the .25 credit Leadership Course during spring term and a full time commitment over the summer for the dates of June 1-26 and August 19- Sept 4.

Responsibilities

• Enroll in and pass a section of EDUC 085, the .25 Leadership Course offered during spring term.
• Meet bi-monthly with the Orientation Leader team.
• Assist with the organization and implementation of all Orientation programs (including midyear and summer) and Weekend of Welcome.
• Facilitate various aspects of Orientation student and parent programs, to include academic advising workshops, interest sessions and discussion groups.
• Manage the planning and implementation of events during Weekend of Welcome.
• Assists with registration and overnight accommodations for orientation program participants.
• Enforce college, residence hall, and orientation policies during the programs.
• Serve as a general resource for new students and parents, and campus officials.
• Assist Admissions with recruitment programs in the spring semester.
• Identify and appropriately respond to any academic or co-curricular issue that may arise with student advisee(s).
• Work collaboratively with other student staff to promote and/or assist in planning of programs that promote learning in the First Year Experience areas of interest.
• Assist with the WOW Leader recruitment process
• Assist the Office of New Student Programs with other duties as assigned.

Training

Along with the Leadership Course, there will be a mandatory weekend retreat June 2-4 that will examine the role of the Orientation Leader within the college community, and in the recruitment and retention of new students and the support of their family members. Through the integration of student developmental theory, paraprofessional student personnel and counseling skills, and personal growth opportunities, students will acquire the knowledge, skills and resources pertinent to the position of Orientation Leader. 

Qualifications

Candidates must be in good academic and disciplinary standing with a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA.  Good communication and public speaking skills, professionalism, teamwork, a prompt and dependable work ethic and the ability to make new students and their families feel comfortable, are essential for success in the program.  Campus involvement and an understanding of SMC resources are preferred; bilingual language ability is a plus.

Compensation

This program offers a $1,500 leadership award gifted in June, July and August as well as provides on-campus housing during the June commitment. Awards are based upon the completion of tasks and the conduct of the individual and will be given by the end of every month.