To the present Orientation Leaders,
What an incredible summer we had. I can't thank you enough for the memories, the dedication and the exhaustion we faced together. The late nights and inside jokes made me laugh more than I could handle. I never thought I would have so much fun moving back into a dorm for the summer.
On our hardest and longest days, all of you kept me sane and you're such an integral part to why this is the greatest job in the world. From making memes of each other on the Facebook page to performing the OL stroll to "Bad Blood" a million times to sharing stories of the hilarious things our students told us in small group, I wouldn't trade this summer for anything. You've taught me patience, kindness and the value of hard work.
There aren't enough words in the world to express how much I have loved working with you all. There isn't anyone else I'd want to get up at 6 a.m. with and work until 1 a.m. with than all of you. Thank you for the silliness, the serious talks and the unforgettable memories. Thank you for believing in me and each other. Thank you for welcoming in the new freshmen class.
But most of all, thank you for making this the greatest summer ever.
Love,
Your fellow OL
To the future Orientation Leaders,
Being an orientation leader will change your whole perspective on life on campus. It's a summer full of stress, sweat and a lot of hard work, but at the end of the day, you love each and every small group and the other OLs. You'll have periods of self-doubt. This is normal. You'll think your group hates you, but I promise you they don't. You were hired for a reason, and the Orientation offices believe in you and your abilities as a peer leader.
When you have your first freak out (it will happen), just breathe. Find a friend on the team and confide in them. Relieve your stress by taking mini vacations when you don't have sessions. Make it fun for you and your co-workers. Laugh until your stomach aches and go out on that Whataburger run at midnight the day before a back-to-back orientation. This job is not only about helping incoming freshmen, but also helping yourself grow as a leader, person and friend.
Live in the dorms if you're able to, even if you have an apartment. If you don't take advantage, you face feeling disconnected the first month like I did. This job is hard and no fun if you don't make any friends on the team. Go do things and make those connections.
Google terrible jokes before small groups. The cheesier, the better. It helps ease tension and awkwardness the first time you meet them. They may think you're ridiculous and weird, but wouldn't you rather they laugh at you and have a blast than be bored out of their minds? Stay true to yourself and get real with them. Tell them about your experiences and how it really is. They'll appreciate it.
Have fun. It's a job, yes, but if you mess up, don't stress too much. It's not the end of the world. People are going to make mistakes and you'll live. Just learn from your mistakes. You have an amazing support system and your whole team is there for you. Good luck and go impact lives.
Sincerely,
The overenthusiastic orientation leader
