As a result of being an Orientation Leader, students will:

• Develop effective leadership through active reflection, self-evaluation and application of leadership theories, while exploring individual identities and values.
• Articulate common challenges and concerns faced by new students and their supporters during their transition to the University of South Carolina.
• Recognize how different social identities, backgrounds and experiences impact the transition experience, and learn how to engage with diverse populations.
• Enhance ability to adapt quickly to changing situations while managing time and responsibilities in a fast-paced environment. 
• Build and refine interpersonal communication skills, including public speaking, active listening, customer service and managing crises or conflicts.
• Facilitate discussions based on the tenets of the Carolinian Creed and their role in the larger Carolina community.  
• Demonstrate strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills in various situations, making informed decisions that support the success of the Orientation program, and the populations served.  

• Present, facilitate and lead both small and large groups of new students that address common first-year experiences, university history and campus information.
• Familiarize new students and supporters with key information about policies, campus resources, academics, culture and traditions and locations to help them navigate life at the University of South Carolina.
• Assist new students and supporters in acclimating to campus by providing programmatic support throughout New Student Orientation.
• Contribute to the preparation and facilitation of Orientation activities and materials.
• Participate in weekly training sessions and occasional one-on-one meetings with Team Leaders and professional staff.
• Model exceptional leadership and customer service while serving as a positive role model for new students.
• Attend and engage in the Southern Regional Orientation Workshop (SROW) during the spring semester.
• Support the development and participate in office's submissions for Song, Skit, Step, Dance (S3D), T-Shirt, Banner, Service Project, and SROWcall competitions at SROW.  
• Assist academic advisors in guiding students through the course registration process and understanding the major maps and required courses.
• Provide additional support for Office of New Student Orientation programs and initiatives, contributing to the office's overall success.
• Exhibit flexibility, dependability, responsibility, enthusiasm and punctuality.
• Occasionally lift and carry objects up to 50 lbs. as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Must have attended an interest meeting.
• Must be a full-time undergraduate student at the University of South Carolina, graduating December 2025 or later (if graduating before May 2025, please consult with an Office of New Student Orientation staff member before applying).
• Maintain good academic standing with a minimum overall GPA of 2.5 (if your GPA falls below 2.5, consult with an Office of New Student Orientation staff member before applying). If GPA is below a 3.0, student will set up a meeting with the Student Success Center.
• Available to attend all required trainings, conferences, Orientation sessions, First Night Carolina and other related events.
• Must have and maintain good conduct with the university, with no outstanding judicial sanctions.
• Abide by federal, state, local and university policies and the Orientation Leader contract.
• Able to commit to the position from December 2024 – May 2026.
• A genuine desire to learn about and work with diverse backgrounds, contributing to an inclusive and supportive environment.

Orientation Leaders commit to weekly training sessions throughout the spring semester, Training Camp in May and full-time availability during Summer Orientation. Additionally, there may be occasional events or meetings to help you further prepare for the role. Your dedication will be essential to creating an exceptional experience for incoming students. View our important dates below:

• Orientation Leader Welcome Social: Nov. 7 | time TBD
• Weekly Spring Training: Jan. - Aug. 2025 | Every Wednesday | 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
• Orientation Leader Retreat (Overnight): Jan. 2025
• Southern Regional Orientation Workshop (SROW) Practices & Preparations: Jan. – March 2025
• SROW (Overnight): Thursday, March 6 – Sunday, March 9, 2025
• Contracted Live-In Period: May – July 2025
• Training Camp: May 2025
• Sponsored Events: May – August 2025
• Summer Orientation: May - Aug. 2025 | Dates and times TBA
• Carolina Welcome Events (First Night Carolina FIrst Day Photos, etc.): August 2025
• Orientation Team Banquet: Sep. 2025
• 2025 Orientation Leader Recruitment Events: Sep. - Oct. 2025
• Spring Orientation: Jan. 2026
• Attendance at requested events: TBD

Please note that all dates are subject to change. Dates and events may also be added.

• Paid $12/hour during the summer.
• On-campus housing provided during the summer.
• University gear, including Orientation staff polos, name tags and t-shirts.
• Most meals provided during Training Camp and New Student Orientation.
• Access to the Center for Health and Wellbeing during the summer.
• Professional development by way of mentorship, training and hands-on experiences.
• Networking opportunities with university staff and fellow student leaders.
• Knowledge of campus resources and services.

How many Orientation Leaders are selected each year?

There is not a specific number of Orientation Leaders we hire. Typically, our team ranges from 45-55 Orientation Leaders.

Do I have to attend an interest meeting in order to apply?

Yes, you must attend an interest meeting to apply. These meetings are an opportunity to learn more about the Orientation Leader position, meet our staff and gain an understanding of what is expected of of the team. If unable to attend on any of the scheduled dates, please email our office at orientation@sc.edu to learn about the next steps.

Do I have to be an extrovert to be an Orientation Leader?

No, you do not have to be an extrovert to be an Orientation Leader! South Carolina has a diverse student body, and our Orientation Leader team should represent that.

Spring Training follows a leadership development curriculum that includes a series of weekly sessions, a staff retreat and a conference. You will explore your unique leadership style, strengths and areas of growth, while developing effective communication techniques, conflict resolution skills and strategies to foster an inclusive environment. These experiences will not only set you up for success as an Orientation Leader but also offer valuable professional and personal growth.

Training Camp kicks off in May and is where we dive deeper into the specifics of program logistics and campus resources. You will learn how to effectively facilitate small groups to ensure meaningful engagement and support for new students. You will also learn how to deliver critical information and your story through the Reader’s Theater program performed at New Student Orientation. By the end of Training Camp, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the resources available at the University of South Carolina and the skills to guide new students through their transition with confidence.

This is where all your training pays off! You will play a key role in welcoming new students and their supporters to campus, creating excitement and enthusiasm for their journey ahead. You will facilitate small groups, lead conversations, help attendees navigate campus and assist with course registration.