OLs on the Bricks
Orientation Leaders

Orientation Leaders

What is an Orientation Leader?

An Orientation Leader (OL) is an undergraduate student who plays an integral role in supporting new students and their families as they transition to campus, and share what it means to be a Bobcat at Ohio University. During their time as an OL, they make friendships, network across campus, gain transferable skills, and get new students excited to begin their Forever at OHIO. 

As part of their daily responsibilities, OLs guide program participants through orientation, facilitate small group sessions and icebreakers, assist faculty and staff who partner with our programs, and create an inclusive environment where learning and growth can occur. Additionally, OLs are assigned to work with at least two specific academic colleges and will assist students as they learn course registration processes and register for the first semester of courses.

Orientation Leaders in green polos on College Green at Ohio University

OLs will also support family and guest program participants in a variety of ways including, but not limited to, serving on student panels, supporting sibling orientation programs, and answering general questions about academic expectations in specific majors.

 

About Undergraduate Orientation Programs

The mission of Undergraduate Orientation Programs is to support incoming and current students, as well as their families and guests, through seamless orientation and transition processes that include intentionally-designed programs, effective online resources, and consistent outreach. Our programs ensure all students belong to the OHIO community, succeed as a new student, and own their unique experiences.

To accomplish this mission, we engage all units and staff across the university in collaborative partnerships and develop informed student leaders who value diversity and inclusion, embody OHIO spirit, and demonstrate a genuine passion for helping their fellow Bobcats with a service-oriented mindset.  

Our vision is to create a welcoming and supportive environment for students to thrive as we establish the foundation for the transformational OHIO experience focused on personalized success.

Our initiatives include in-person orientation programs, and virtual orientation programs for all new first-year and transfer students beginning at OHIO each semester. We also coordinate Relocate Advising Day for regional campus students moving to the Athens campus, College Credit Plus orientation, and family/guest programs for all orientations, as well as co-coordinate the efforts of Welcome Week.

Undergraduate Orientation Programs welcomes approximately 5,200 new students and 6,800 family members and guests to the Athens campus of Ohio University each year through BSO programs.

 

Benefits and Reasons to Apply

Being an Orientation Leader gets you more than just the green polo.

Transferable Skills and Career Readiness Being an Orientation Leader is a great way to build your resume! Orientation Leaders can gain skills such as communication, adaptability, public speaking, team work, relationship building, customer service, leadership, organization, conflict management and strategic thinking.
Represent and Support Your Academic College Orientation Leaders can represent their academic college and network with faculty and staff within their college.
Memorable Experiences and Lifelong Friendships Orientation Leaders support incoming students, give back to their OHIO community, and make lifelong friendships!
Compensation and Other Perks Paid stipend for mid-May through mid-July (including training and all BSO programs) based on a rate of 11.30 per hour. Hourly pay for time spent working any other programs throughout the year. Shared residence hall room and meal plan with 10 meals per week from mid-May through mid-July.
Ready to Apply?
Eligibility, Hiring Process and Timeline

Eligibility

Students must meet the following requirements to apply:

  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.2
  • Good academic standing (must be maintained to continue employment)
  • Enrolled on the Athens campus at the time of application OR Enrolled on a regional campus at the time of application with plans to relocate to Athens in the spring semester.
  • Planning to enroll on the Athens campus in the spring and fall semesters of the upcoming year.
  • Positive energy and enthusiasm for being an OHIO Bobcat (strongly encouraged)

Graduate students will not be considered for these positions, but can contact our office for other opportunities.

Hiring Process and Timeline

Step 1 - Complete the Online Application

Students must submit an online application to be considered for the Orientation Leader position. The application will be due by 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, December 3, 2024.

When submitting the application, candidates should be prepared to answer the following questions:

  • Why are you interested in becoming an Orientation Leader?
  • What knowledge, skills, or abilities will you bring to the Orientation Leader role?
  • What does diversity and inclusion mean to you?
  • Why is understanding and appreciating diversity important in working with new students?
  • As an Orientation Leader, how do you envision helping students and their family members and guests to transition successfully to Ohio University?
  • What motivates you to want to work with new students as an Orientation Leader?
  • Is there anything else about you or your experience that you believe we should consider when making our hiring decisions?

 

We recommend drafting your application question responses on a separate document to avoid losing any of your responses.

Apply Now!

Step 2 - Individual Interview

All applicants participate in an individual interview as part of the

Two orientation leaders holding color group signs that say "Lime" and "Red", and one that is handing out a bag in a green polo.

 hiring process. Candidates receive information about signing up for an interview after completing the application.

 

Step 3 - Group Interview

All applicants participate in a group interview as part of the hiring process. Candidates will receive information about signing up for an interview after completing the application.

Step 4 - Notification and Acceptance

Initial offers of OL positions happen in January and candidates are given a specific time frame in which to formally accept the position before it is offered to other candidates in the applicant pool. Unfortunately, we may have great candidates who we are unable to offer a position to. However, some of those candidates may be offered a slot in our alternate pool and could be asked to join the team at a later date if a position opens up.

Expected Participation

Student staff are expected to participate in the following:

  • One-Day Orientation Programs – January, May, July, and August
  • UC 3690 Orientation Leader Course* – Spring Semester
  • OL Training* – mid-May
  • Fall Orientation Programs* – late May through mid-July
  • College Credit Plus Orientation Programs – July/August
  • Welcome Week (Events and Responsibilities Vary) – August/September

*Students must commit to attending and participating in the UC 3690 course and OL Training in mid-May. They must also be available to work a majority of orientation programs in the summer in late-May through mid-July. Participation in the other events and experiences listed above are dependent on course conflicts and other student leader training and responsibilities. Generally speaking, the roles and work times for all programs not starred in the list above can be discussed. Students who are potentially unavailable for a portion of the summer are still encouraged to apply and should discuss availability during the interview process.

New orientation leaders are typically not permitted to enroll in courses, on campus or online, or hold other employment during training and throughout the summer programs that end in mid-July. Between these dates, staff members are expected to focus on their roles with orientation. However, students who are planning to take a summer course are still encouraged to apply and should discuss planned summer course enrollment during the interview process. 

 

Orientation Leader Nomination Form

Do you know someone who would make an outstanding Orientation Leader? Nominate them today!

Orientation Leader Nomination Form

 

Nominations are accepted from faculty, staff, students, and community members as a way to identify students who may be good for the position. After our office receives a nomination, we contact the student to encourage them to apply.

Questions? Contact us!

2024 Orientation Leaders

Orientation Leader
Alex

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: Williamstown, WV

Major: Biology Pre-Med

2nd Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Spikeball Club

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

Never be afraid to ask questions or ask for help, everyone is always willing to help with anything you’ll need.

Orientation Leader
Amari

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio

Major: Political Science

Minor: Psychology

2nd Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Tour Guide, College of Arts and Sciences Ambassador, Women's Rugby Team Vice President

What did you choose Ohio University?

Ohio University is like no other. Immediately being on campus, I felt connected, like this was home. Here at OHIO, we are about supporting one another and such a community; you can instantly feel it. That's why I chose OHIO.

Care Representative
Aria

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Somerset, OH

Major: English in Honors Tutorial College

2nd Year Student

2nd Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Sphere Literary Magazine & Classic Lit Book Club

Why did you choose Ohio University?

I chose Ohio University for the diverse options for leadership roles and the quality of education within the Honors Tutorial College. The campus is also relatively small and walkable.

Orientation Leader
Ashley

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Naperville, IL

Major: Early Childhood Education

Minors & Certificates: Minor in Psychology

2nd Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Sigma Kappa

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

Trust the process, you hear it all the time and for me personally I ignored it. I was so in my own head and thought the process was overrated. I finally let myself trust the process and when I did OHIO became my home away from home.

Orientation Leader
Avrin

Pronouns: They/Them

Hometown: Charles Town, WV

Major: Exercise Physiology Pre-Athletic Training

Minor: Radio and Television Broadcasting

2nd Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Student Leader at Shively Dining Hall, Ohio University Athletic Training Student Organization, Exercise Physiology Club Member of Ohio University, Tennis Club, Student Ambassador for the College of Health Sciences and Professions, Hydration Assistant for Ohio University Football

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

Make connections, it doesn’t matter if it’s a professor, faculty, or TA, the connections you make during your time at Ohio University can lead to help finding the position that you have dreamed of in the post graduate world.

Orientation Leader
Beth

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Piqua, OH

Major: Integrated Social Studies

1st Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

What is one thing you wish you had known before attending BSO?

It’s okay to be outside of your comfort zone!

Care Representative
Caroline

Pronouns: She/They

Hometown: Grove City, OH

Major: Integrated Language Arts

Minors & Certificate: Dance Performance and Choreography; English

2nd Year Student

2nd Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Tour Guide, Learning Community Leader, OU Vibrations

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

My dad has always told me, "College is what you make of it," and I couldn't agree more. Be spontaneous, put yourself out there, seize opportunities, and do what you love, even if it's scary at first! It'll be well worth it.

Orientation Coordinator for Family and Guest Programs
Casey

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Monroe, OH

Major: Spanish and Philosophy

Minor: Studio Art

2nd Year Student

2nd Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Philosophy Circle, College of Arts and Sciences Student Ambassadors, Sigma Delta Pi

Why did you choose Ohio University?

Ohio University has such a welcoming atmosphere with all of the faculty, staff, and students. It is also absolutely beautiful and feels like home at any time of the year!

Orientation Leader
Casidy

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: State College, PA

Major: Integrated Social Studies

1st Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Connavino Honors Program and Club Lacrosse

Why did you choose Ohio University?

I chose OHIO because of the beautiful scenery and how welcoming everyone was. The energy on this campus is incredible!

College Representative, Scripps College of Communication
Cassie

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA

Major: Communication Studies

Minor: Sports Management and Advertising & Public Relations

2nd Year Student

2nd Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: The Post Podcast Team Leader, Marketing Executive for Girls Club Ohio

What is your favorite memory of being a Bobcat?

My first year homecoming weekend was the first time I really bonded with people, and made some valuable connections.

College Representative, College of Health Sciences and Professions
Corey

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: Sissonville, WV

Major: Hearing, Speech, & Language Sciences

Minor: Psychology

3rd Year Student

2nd Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: President of Best Buddies Ohio University Chapter, Fundraising Chair for Bobcats of the Shelter Dogs, Director of Public Relations for Phone a Friend, Member of NSSLHA, Tour Guide, Student Ambassador for College of Health Sciences & Professions, Learning Community Leader Coordinator

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

Try to get involved in something on campus, whether it be a campus job, organization, or club. Meeting people with similar interests is a great way to make friends!

College Representative, University College
Damyria

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Nashville, TN

Major: Philosophy Pre-Law

1st Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

What is one thing you wish you had known before attending BSO?

I wish I knew how overwhelming that it can be. I also wish that I knew that I had people to talk to during BSO that would’ve helped me with how I was feeling.

Orientation Leader
Eric

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: Ashburn, VA

Major: Political Science

6th Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Marching 110, Kappa Kappa Psi Honorary Band Fraternity, Singing Men of Ohio

What is your favorite memory of being a Bobcat?

My favorite memory of being a Bobcat is singing the alma mater at the start of an Ohio University homecoming football game with the Singing Men of Ohio

Orientation Leader
Eva

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Dayton, OH

Major: Accounting

2nd Year Student

2nd Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Copeland Scholars Vice President of Professional Development, Ohio Women in Business Finance Committee

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

Have fun!

Orientation Leader
Gloria

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Nigeria

Major: Biological Sciences Pre-Professional

Minor: Psychology

1st Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Student Alumni Board and American Medical Student Association

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

Don’t be in haste to make friends when you get to college. At the perfect time you would find your people and it would all make sense. If you put in efforts regarding your education you’ll definitely see results. Take deep breaths and do everything one step at a time.

Orientation Leader
Ian

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: New Lebanon, OH

Major: Media Arts Production

Minors & Certificates: Minor in Podcasting

3rd Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Anime Club Ohio University

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

Join a club! Putting yourself out there is the first step and it’s the easiest way of finding friends with your interests.

Orientation Leader
Ian

Pronouns: He/They

Hometown: Dayton, Ohio

Major: Studio Art - Ceramics

Minors & Certificates: Plant Biology

3rd Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Battles and Bobcats, OU Game Developers Association

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

Just do it. Take the class, talk to the person, apply to the job. Whatever it is, you'll regret missing the chance more than you'll regret failing at anything you try.

Orientation Leader
Ilana

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Dayton, Ohio

Major: Sociology-Criminology and Psychology

Minor/Certificate: Forensic Studies Certificate

3rd Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Vice President of Victims’ Rights Ambassadors, Psychology Club, Ohio Innocence Project - University Chapter, University Hearing Board.

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

It is okay to feel nervous! Everyone feels that way, but it is a very exciting experience! Don’t be afraid to take a step out of your shell. Everyone you meet has gone through the same experience, and we at BSO are here to help ease any and all nerves you may have!

Orientation Leader
Jenna

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Jackson, OH

Major: Communication Studies

Minors & Certificates: Minor in Writing and Certificate in Social Media

3rd Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Student Professionals in Communication Studies (SPCS), Lambda Pi Eta Fraternity

Why did you choose Ohio University?

I spent two years at another university prior to transferring to OU. Since making the switch, I am finally experiencing what it means to be a college student. Ohio University has a community unlike anything I've ever seen. Being a Bobcat means having unwavering support no matter what path you choose.

College Representative, College of Arts & Sciences
Julia
Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Waterford, OH

Majors: Sociology Pre-Law and Psychology

Minor: Social Service

1st Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Mock Trial, Phi Alpha Delta, Student Social Work Association

What is your favorite memory of being a Bobcat?

I went canoeing in the Backcountry of Minnesota and made so many new friends!

Orientation Leader
Kathleen

Pronouns: She/They

Hometown: Massillon, OH

Major: Mechanical Engineering

1st Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Lost Flamingo Theatre Company, Society of Women Engineers, Alpha Omicron Pi, Mechanical Engineering Staff-Student Liaison Committee, Bobcat Peer Health Educator

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

Welcome diversity and be open to meeting new people, trying new things, and exploring new places. You will not only learn a lot about yourself, but also about your community, peers, and the world!

Orientation Leader
Kurt

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: Athens, OH

Major: Integrated Social Studies

3rd Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Organizer For, Community Meet-Ups, Member of the Ohio University Paranormal Society

What is your favorite memory of being a Bobcat?

Sledding down Jeff hill with new friends and then going to the Washington residence hall kitchen to make curry, and ending up becoming the best of friends with the people I sledded with.

College Representative, College of Fine Arts
Lil

Pronouns: They/Them

Hometown: Pickerington, OH

Major: Studio Art

Minor: Museum Studies Certificate

2nd Year Student

2nd Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Battles and Bobcats, Art Ambassador, Learning Community Leader

What is your favorite memory of being a Bobcat?

My favorite memory of being a Bobcat was realizing I belonged here at OU. Sitting with the best friends I have ever met in my favorite place was a life-changing experience.

Orientation Coordinator for Family & Guest Programs
Logan

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: Gahanna, Ohio

Major: Adolescent-to-Young Adult Integrated Mathematics

Minors & Certificates: Psychology and Mathematics

4th Year Student

3rd Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Learning Community Leader Coordinator

Why did you choose Ohio University?

I chose Ohio because the feeling of community on campus made me feel like I would be appreciated and encouraged to flourish.

Orientation Leader
Lucy

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Cincinnati, OH

Major: Honors Tutorial College (HTC) Social Work

1st Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Margaret Boyd Scholar, Women's Affairs Senator in Student Senate, Student Social Workers Association

Why did you choose Ohio University?

I chose Ohio University because I knew HTC would provide me with an amazing college experience. I also fell in love with the beautiful scenery and brick buildings on campus. The OHIO Community consistently makes me feel welcomed and wanted.

College Representative, College of Business
Lydia

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: West Chester, Ohio

Major: Journalism News and Information

Minor & Certificates: Social Media Certificate

3rd Year Student

3rd Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Working on Campus

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

Make the most out of every moment! Time flies, and you'll look back and wonder where all the time went. Enjoy everything, make memories, and meet new people! You won't regret it!

Orientation Leader
Makayla

Pronouns: They/She

Hometown: Beckley, West Virginia

Major: Classical Civilizations

Minor: Art History

2nd Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Victim's Rights Ambassadors, Classics Club, Monsters in Literature Book Club, College of Art and Sciences Student Ambassadors

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

College is a place to learn and grow. Exploring different clubs and organizations, classes, and ways of life will help you understand and grow into who you truly are, take your time at Ohio University trying new things and experiencing the freedom that college provides.

College Representative, Russ College of Engineering and Technology
Mason

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: Indore, WV

Major: Virtual Reality & Game Development

Minor: Communication

2nd Year Student

2nd Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Orientation Leader

What is one thing you wish you had known before attending BSO?

I wish I knew that the Orientation staff WANT you to ask questions!

Orientation Leader
Mckenzie

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Bethel, OH

Major: Political Science Pre-Law and Economics

1st Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Tri-Beta

What is one thing you wish you had known before attending BSO?

There will be a lot of information you get. You are not expected to remember it all and its okay to feel overwhelmed. Just remember you are not alone.

Orientation Leader
Megan

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Lebanon, OH

Major: Integrated Language Arts

1st Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Hall Council and Residence Hall Association (RHA)

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

Take advantage of the resources the Academic Achievement Center has to offer!

Orientation Coordinator, Student Programs
Mia
Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Tallmadge, Ohio

Major: Journalism and Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies

4th Year Student

4th Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: LGBT Center Staff worker, CIAO Club, Latino Student Union, Cutler Council

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

Ask questions! There is always someone there to help you with anything you need. If you hit a dead end they can always help you find someone else who can help!

Orientation Leader
Nate

Hometown: Elyria, OH

Major: Integrated Social Studies and History

1st Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Residence Hall Council

Why did you choose Ohio University?

I fell in love with the campus and the opportunities for education majors that are provided.

Orientation Leader
Nina

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Uniontown, OH

Major: Social Work

1st Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Library Service Desk, Honors Tutorial College, Student Social Work Association Club

What is your favorite memory of being a Bobcat?

Late night walks on college green with my friends!

Orientation Leader
Paige

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Mansfield, OH

Major: Music Education

2nd Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Secretary of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME)

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

Take the time to connect with your professors and your advisor. You only have a set number of years here at Ohio University and these individuals have all the tools you need to succeed.

Orientation Leader
Reagan

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Springboro, Ohio

Major: Psychology

1st Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Residence Hall Council President, Ciao Club, Rock-Climbing at Ping Recreation Center

What is your favorite memory of being a Bobcat?

My favorite memory of being a Bobcat would be going to a hockey game with my friends!

Orientation Leader
Regan

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

Major: Exercise Physiology

2nd Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Resident Advisor, Learning Community Leader, Undergraduate Teaching Assistant, Pre-Physician Assistant Club

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

Hit the ground running, but also be open to change! I think setting goals and making a plan for yourself is very important to your success in your first year. However, don't be afraid to change your path. College is a time for exploration, and you may leave with different goals than you came in with.

Orientation Coordinator for Student Programs
Roxanne
Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Berea, OH

Major: General Business

1st Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

What is one thing you wish you had known before attending BSO?

Don’t worry, people are there to help you!

Orientation Leader
Taylor

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Marysville, OH

Major: Music Education - Vocal Emphasis

2nd Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Ohio University Singers, Poetry Nights at Donkey Coffee

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming students?

Maintain a good work-life balance! Even though we’re all here to get a good education, it’s okay to set aside time for yourself and take a mental health day when you need one. Don’t burn yourself out!

Orientation Leader
Tyler

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: Berea, OH

Major: Music Education Instrumental Emphasis

1st Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: NAFME, University Band, Symphonic Band

Why did you choose Ohio University?

Ohio University is an incredibly welcoming and inclusive place that has a spot for anyone and everyone.

College Representative, Patton College of Education
Vishal

Pronouns: He/Him

Hometown: Pickerington, OH

Major: Integrated Language Arts Education

Minors: Psychology & English

2nd Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: Liberation Now! & Sphere Magazine

What is one thing you wish you had known before attending BSO?

One thing I wish I knew before attending BSO is that there isn't a huge hurry to make friends-- there are plenty of opportunities for friendship in college so long as you put yourself out there.

Orientation Leader
Yanett

Pronouns: She/Her

Hometown: Dayton, OH

Major: Accounting & International Business

1st Year Student

1st Year Orientation Leader

Student Involvement: University Program Council, SOX 404 Fellowship Program

What is your favorite memory of being a Bobcat?

My favorite memory is going to my first hockey game!