Orientation is the most important period for new residents living on campus as it allows them to become familiar with new surroundings, create friendships, learn community values and develop a strong sense of belonging. Working under the direction of our Residential Life Staff (RLS), Orientation Teams (O-Teams) assist in delivering a diverse range of programs for the benefit of all residents at MRS.
Duration: The orientation programs run in the 2 weeks before the start of each semester.
In Semester 2, the MRS Orientation period runs from Friday 11 to Sunday 27 July 2025.
Expressions of interest are open now! Follow the steps if you're interested in being part of the centralised Semester two Orientation Teams!
Step 1. Read through the Role and Expectations below
Step 2. Apply for a Working with Children Card online
Step 3. Complete the Expression of Interest form
Deadline: 9am on Monday 2 June 2025
O-Team volunteers plan, organise, and coordinate a welcoming and inclusive orientation program designed to help new residents become familiar with their residence and the Monash University campus. At the same time, it should help them get to know other residents and prepare for study at Monash University.
Roles
There are Executive and Member volunteer roles within the residential Orientation Team. The key differences between Executives and Members relate to the role's responsibilities, scope and complexity.
Recruitment process
Residents fill in an expression of interest form, and Residential Life Coordinators review responses and nominate their O-team members.
Quota
The number of members in an O-Team depends on the number of new residents expected. Generally, one orientation member is assigned to 10 new residents.
Assist in the planning of the Orientation program
Create Event Plans for Orientation events
Be on site during the Orientation period
Execute events in line with the approved budget
Attend Orientation events and engage with residents
Supervise events at times without RLS present
Greet new residents and make sure they follow/ are aware of their hall’s social media platforms and hall handbooks.
All nominated Orientation Team volunteer roles must:
Be a current resident with Monash Residential Services.
Hold a valid and current Working With Children Card
Follow all MRS Regulations and Policies including the Conditions of Residency (CoR), Social Media Guidelines and Alcohol Procedure
Operate at the discretion of the Residential Life Coordinator
Being an Orientation Team Volunteer has a number of benefits such as:
Gain valuable volunteer experience
Giving back to the MRS community and having fun
Being a part of a team
Adding the skills acquired to your resume and using them as talking points in a job interview
Demonstrating your motivation and capability to inspire others
Useful if you are interested in applying to be a Resident Advisor
By participating in a Residential Orientation Team, you may have the opportunity to develop the following employability skills that can become a valuable asset to your resume.
Ability to plan engaging events and activities for a community
Ability to deliver on key deadlines
Gain experience in actively and enthusiastically participating in community activities
Ability to manage time efficiently, particularly during busy periods
Experience in leading a team or a group and encouraging community participation
Is experienced at taking on responsibilities and working with others
All O-Team members must have a valid Working with Children Check (WWCC).
Residential Support Office
Monash Residential Services
T: +61 (03) 9905 7503
E: mrs.reslife@monash.edu
monash.edu/accommodation