2024 Orientation Leader Reflections
As we get ready to welcome the Class of 2029 in five months, we look back on last year’s Orientation program and ask some of our Orientation Leaders to reflect on their experience.
Lily Morgan
Summer 2023; Summer and Fall 2024
I enjoyed getting to know many others. Now doing this two years, I have developed so many friendships from being an Orientation Leader. Being able to get to know the first-years is also great, as I still talk to some of mine from two years ago now. Orientation is a great experience overall. I enjoyed the ability to live in the dorms for a bit as a commuter. I was never going to be able to have that opportunity without Orientation, and now I can say I have lived in the dorms. You can learn skills like talking in front of others and stepping out of your comfort zone. I have grown as a person so much since being an OL, and I credit Orientation for my involvement on campus.
Johnathon Beford
Summer and Fall 2024
The things I enjoyed most about the orientation leader position were the community and the responsibility. The community I found through pro-staff and my peers was truly incredible and inspiring. Everyone there was so unique, interesting, and inspiring; I felt pushed to be my best self when around them. The responsibility pushed me just far enough out of my comfort zone. I learned valuable stress management skills, but never felt too overwhelmed. I woke up every day ready to see what we’d accomplish as a team.
Fayez Alshammaa
Summer 2024
I enjoyed working with other students and making more friends. I also liked the fact I went into the new school year knowing a good amount of the new first-years. Saying hi to them and being a familiar face makes them feel more comfortable, and that makes me feel good.
Being an Orientation Leader was such a cool experience for me. I got to help new students adjust to college life and made some awesome connections along the way.
Keila Carmona
Summer 2023 & 2024
Here are some things I enjoyed and learned:
– Making Friends: I loved meeting new students and helping them feel at home.
– Being a Leader: Being in charge and helping plan events was cool and boosted my leadership skills.
– Teamwork: Working with my fellow leaders taught me a lot about teamwork and communication.
– Problem-Solving: Dealing with unexpected issues during events taught me how to think on my feet.
– Public Speaking: I had to talk in front of big groups, which improved my public speaking skills.
– Event Planning: Organizing events sharpened my planning and organizational skills.
– Helping Hand: Guiding new students showed me how to be supportive and understanding.
– Time Management: Balancing everything as an Orientation Leader taught me to manage my time more efficiently.
It was a game-changer for me, giving me skills I can use in many situations!
5 Reasons to Apply to be an Orientation Leader
Get a Great Job – Orientation Leaders make $2,000 for the June programs and are also paid to work New Student Fall Welcome! Live on campus for free in June with some meals included.
Make New Friends – Being an Orientation Leader allows you to connect with other student leaders! Many students take this opportunity to make new friendships that last!
Make Connections – Orientation Leaders learn all about campus resources and make connections with Worcester State staff and other students!
Build Skills – Learn about your leadership style and strengths and build skills for your resume. Orientation Leaders go on to have great careers!
Support the WSU Community – Orientation Leaders are the first students to connect with our new Lancers by helping them learn and feel at home!
Learn more about being an Orientation Leader and apply now!
