An Orientation Leader (OL) position is one that allows a student to make a real contribution to the
college and to the entering new First Year, Transfer, and Exchange students. OLs help new students
and their families make a positive and smooth transition to Beloit. OLs play an extremely crucial
role during New Student Days.
Requirements:
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Must be a registered student attending classes and living on campus during Fall term
Must not have or accept any other commitments during New Student Days and/or OL
training
Display strong interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills and the potential to
develop these skills
Good academic and disciplinary status
Positive attitude and enthusiasm for Beloit College
The ability and desire to work with diverse groups of people
Campus and/or community co-curricular involvement
Have a positive attitude, positive energy and an open mind
Must complete all parts of the selection process:
o Application
o A recommendation from a faculty/staff member and from a student
o Individual interview with the Director or Assistant Director of Student Activities
Responsibilities during New Student Days
All OLs:
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must commit their time during NSD to the first year students.
should expect to lead and provide support for several events during the week, in addition to
eating meals and socializing with first years, attending and assisting in the FYI seminar, and
keeping a positive and enthusiastic attitude about Beloit College and NSD.
must be reliable, prompt, and have good decision-making skills. The success of New
Student Days depends upon OLs following through with their responsibilities.
will welcome new students, their families, and friends. New students come to Beloit from all
over the world and from a variety of circumstances. Sensitivity to varying cultures is crucial.
will need to be a leader in different situations.
will be expected to attend all FYI seminar sessions, all assigned events, and scheduled lunch
meetings. OLs may lead some group discussions or help the FYI leader in other ways during
seminar time. Faculty members will expect OLs to know what is going on during the week
and OLs may be asked to share that information during seminar time. OLs will be
responsible for administering the CERP survey during seminar time.
may help with advising new students; therefore it is important to have a good understanding
of campus resources and be familiar with the curriculum.
must be patient, a good listener, and supportive and understanding of the struggles of
incoming students. OLs must be willing to refer new students to the proper source when
appropriate.
must be able to spot potential problems and be willing to notify the Head Orientation Leader
or the Director of Student Activities when appropriate.
need to be able to work both independently and in teams.
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must be willing to confront inappropriate behaviors and reinforce appropriate behaviors of
OLs and new students. Some examples of inappropriate behaviors include not going to class,
being disrespectful of others or themselves, not following through with OL responsibilities,
or being irresponsible.
must be willing to be a positive role model for new students.
need strong communication skills.
need to read the FYI summer reading over the summer and be prepared to discuss or lead
discussions on this reading during New Student Days.
will work long hours during New Student Days; e.g., 14-16 hour days and will work for the
entire duration of New Student Days.
will participate in all FYI classes, field trip and orientation events.
work as a team member of the OL staff to assist with the implementation of orientation.
will attend all OL lunch meetings
will complete other appropriate job duties as assigned.
Training:
All Orientation Leaders must attend all training sessions.
Training dates are yet to be determined, but are expected to begin early in the fall before New
Student Days. Room and board charges during OL training and New Student Days will also be paid
for by the FYI program.
Benefits:
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Gain significant leadership experience while enhancing your employment marketability and
career opportunities
Develop professional relationships with faculty, staff, and other students
Gain skills in effective interpersonal communication and leading classroom discussions
Will have an opportunity to meet and interact with all the incoming students and OL staff
Personal development
Learn more about what’s available for students at Beloit College
Honoraria, 1/4 unit credit FYE 395, room and board during new student days, a new student
days t-shirt