The transition to college can be a scary time for the many new students who come to Northern Illinois University each year. For many, coming to Northern means leaving behind friends and family whom they have known for years and adjusting to a large university setting. I know that I was scared about the transition to such a large community and leaving behind everything that was comfortable to me. When I went through orientation, I remember experiencing mixed emotions of excitement and nervousness all wrapped into one. Orientation was the first taste that I had of Northern as a student, and it set the stage for my future experiences to come.

Being an orientation leader this past summer was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I felt that through my work, I was able to make a real contribution to a university that has given me so much. I had the opportunity to be a part of a team that helped new students and their families make a positive transition to the university. By easing new students’ fears and concerns, I believe that the orientation leaders this past summer truly made a difference on campus and eased the transition for many of our new students here today.

During my time as an orientation leader, I developed into a more well-rounded person and brushed up on my communication skills and leadership abilities. I know that I can take the skills that I have learned as an orientation leader and use them later in life, no matter what direction my life takes me. I also had the opportunity to work with a diverse group of students that eventually became a group of my closest friends. My staff always was there for me when I needed them and they encouraged me to grow. I know that I have gained life-long friendships through my work with orientation.

The life of an orientation leader begins with training, which starts from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday nights during the spring semester. Throughout training, students not only learn facts and information about Northern, they also participate in communication exercises and mock situations to prepare them for the summer. When summer rolls around, orientation leaders implement all they have learned in training and apply it to everyday situations. During the summer, a typical day for an orientation leader consists of facilitating discussions among students and guests, explaining the registration process for new students, leading a tour for students and guests and finally, helping new students register for their fall classes.

I would encourage students who are looking for a way to make a difference on campus and are interested in helping future students here at NIU to pick up an application in the Campus Life Building, Room 120, or download one from the Web at www.reg.niu.edu/ornt/. Completed applications must be returned to the Orientation Office by Friday, Dec. 7. All applicants are required to attend one of the following informational meetings: 9 p.m. on Nov. 7 in the Stevenson Towers North Multipurpose Room, 9 p.m on Nov. 13 in the Holmes Student Center, Room 506 or 9 p.m. on Nov. 14 in the Holmes Student Center, Room 405. After going to an informational meeting, applicants must participate in the Selection Workshop on Jan. 27, 2002.