What is an Orientation Leader?

Orientation Leaders (OL’s) are role models as well as sources of support and information for new freshmen and transfer students. They play a major role in facilitating the adjustment of new students and their families to the Stony Brook community. They share accurate information about academic, personal, and social resources while working collaboratively with faculty, professional staff, and student staff from other areas on campus.

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What do Orientation Leaders do?

OLs assist with orientation events such as:

• Participate in all aspects of summer orientation (part I) and Experience Stony Brook (part II)
• Lead discussion groups with incoming students and family members
• Assist in the preparation of orientation activities and materials
• Acquaint new students and parents with campus services and building locations through campus tours and public speaking
• Aid in the development of class schedules
• Contact students before and after orientation
• Serve as a positive role model
• Represent Stony Brook University to all new students and their parents throughout their transition to campus

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What skills and qualifications do I need to be an Orientation Leader?

We are looking for a diverse group of students who possess the following qualifications:

• Good academic and disciplinary standing (minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5)
• Campus or Community involvement (i.e. service, extra-curricular activities, etc.)
• Team player
• Positive attitude
• Public speaking skills
• Ability to work with diverse students, parents, faculty and staff
• Desire to be a leader and role-model, including on-campus, on-line and in the community

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How do I apply for the Orientation Leader position?

Applications for Orientation Leader positions beginning in the summer are available in late January and early February. Application screening and interviewing takes place during the month of March. The interview consists of an individual interview and a group interview. Offers are made in early April. Students who are offered and accept the OL position are required to sign the OL Contract and attend a meeting in early May. Orientation Leaders work from the end of May to the first day of classes. Training is provided and is mandatory for all OL’s.

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What is it like to be an Orientation Leader?

Here is what other OL’s are saying about their Orientation experience: