The Wake

Every summer, eager and nervous incoming freshmen flood the University of Minnesota campus to take part in a required two-day student orientation, led by current students clad in maroon and gold polo shirts. This program is meant to offer a smooth transition into the University community in order to maximize academic success. Students come prepared to meet fellow classmates and staff members, register for classes and enjoy their very first dorm-living experience. Hopefully these students gain a sense of community and support as they enter the college world. It is here that these young minds can listen to experienced college students talk about how to survive their first year and make it fun while they’re at it.

But few people realize the time and effort that goes into the program that leaves a lasting first impression on those newbies.

The University of Minnesota’s Orientation and First Year Programs (OFYP) provides any University student with two semesters under their belt the opportunity to become an orientation leader. OFYP recruits for the position all though October, with banners in Northrop Mall, posters, ads and e-mails to student groups. Applications for the position, which gives a $2,900 stipend for the summer, are open from the beginning of October through Nov. 3, 2006. Hiring is an extensive process, as students who are invited to interview for the job must endure three interviews: first as a group with different members of the OFYP staff, followed by individual interviews with members of their college and finally with the student orientation coordinators.

This process singles out the best-qualified candidates to determine the most diverse to represent the University of Minnesota. The 24 students who emerge as orientation leaders then undergo rigorous training throughout spring semester. The time commitment includes weekly four-hour meetings, which can be taken as a class, as well as summer training from the conclusion of spring semester through the beginning of orientation.

Throughout training, orientation leaders work on personal leadership development, team building, conflict resolution and group facilitation. And that’s before orientation even begins. Beginning at the end of the spring semester, leaders live together in a residence hall and endure sun-up to sun-down training, according to orientation coordinator Joanne Reeck.

But despite the level of commitment necessary for the job, orientation leaders all seem to love the experience. Freshman orientation student coordinator Mike Traxinger says, “It’s a huge commitment, but a great learning experience. By the end of the summer, you’re a very close knit group.” Traxinger and fellow student coordinator Brandon Creager also highlight the leadership experience and professional skills that you gain in the program. For Creager, the most memorable thing about his summer was running into new students on campus in the fall and seeing how they adjusted with his help.

So, if you work well with others and strive to wear the infamous maroon and gold polo, apply online before Friday Nov. 3 at 4:30p.m. at . OFYP requires a minimum GPA of 3.20, and students who will be graduating before the end of the orientation session are not eligible.