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So, you're thinking about becoming an Orientation Leader. You've come to the right place! This site has all the information you'll need to learn what it takes to be an OL, from frequently asked questions, to application instructions, important dates, links, photos, and more!
Can I chat with a current Orientation Leader to learn more about the position?
Yes! We would love for you to attend one of our Information Sessions. The dates, times, and locations of these sessions are:
What exactly is an Orientation Leader?
Known for their yellow polo shirts, Orientation Leaders are a freakishly friendly family of exceptional Setonians who serve as campus leaders. Their primary role is to aid, assist, and support new Seton Hill students here on the hill.
Our Orientation Leaders receive ample training about campus resources, departments, offices, "go-to" individuals, and more. They are always ready to point any student in the right direction. All Orientation Leaders are also trained and certified in Mental Health First Aid.
What are the perks?
Perhaps the greatest perk of being an Orientation Leader is the ability to develop your leadership skills organically through the work that you do, leaving a lasting impact on the students you serve. This position can be listed on resumes, LinkedIn, and your Setonian Seminar portfolio. Many of your experiences as an Orientation Leader can be used to complete competency areas for the CPDC's Career Readiness Summit. Other perks include stipends, exclusive swag items, training retreats with your Freakishly Friendly Family, and possible position promotions.
How do I apply?
Before applying, consider attending an information session (dates & times can be found on MySHU). These sessions will provide further insight into the position and allow you to meet and ask questions of current Orientation Leaders. Next, please review all of the information contained within this site. Once you're comfortable with the information, it's time to apply!
Navigate to the "forms" tab on this site to fill out the application and find the link for the reference form. You'll need to send the reference form to the Seton Hill employee who will be serving as your reference. Choose a reference who knows you well and is employed full-time by the university. Often, applicants choose their academic advisor or a favorite instructor to serve as a reference.
What happens after I apply?
Your reference must complete your reference form for your application to be considered complete. Once we receive their thoughts, we will review your application and check your eligibility. If you are eligible to serve as an Orientation Leader, we'll notify you and invite you to an in-person interview.
Interviews will be held Sunday, February 21st. You will be sent a link to sign up for a time slot. Your interview will be conducted by either Matthew Zielinski, or his graduate assistant, Gina Veltri. An Orientation Leader will be assisting them.
What happens after my interview?
We will review the information we learned during your interview to determine if we believe you are a good fit for our team. From there, you will receive an email offering you a position, or thanking you for applying. Meaning we will notify you either way.
Are there opportunities for advancement?
Orientation Leading provides a path for position advancement to help you further grow your leadership and campus impact.
Orientation Leaders who reapply following their first year of service are eligible to apply for a coordinator position. Coordinators use their past experiences and strengths to serve as point-people for more specific aspects of Orientation Leading. Coordinators collaborate with one another to make sure the needs of the team and the duties required are being met. Coordinators perform in-office work during the Summer, assisting Matthew & Gina with "behind the scenes" tasks to make Welcome Weekend a success! Coordinators attend a weekend-long retreat on campus during which time they collaborate and work by day, and enjoy extra fun in the evening. Coordinators earn a stipend for their Summer work.
2027 Application Deadline for New Orientation Leaders, February 14th, 2027 at 11:59pm
Reference Form Deadline, February 29th, 2027 at 5:00pm
Have questions? We have answers!
Matthew Zielinski
Lowe 106 (Daily)
724-830-1101
Nothing says great college memories like a wholesome photoshoot with your fellow OLs!
Looking for a leader who knows how to bring the fun? Look no further! Matt has worked diligently over the years to help make Orientation Leading and Welcome Weekend everything it's become!
Orientation Leaders Lexi Svidron, Emma Julian, Logan Mouser & Emily Vohs posing with Griff!
Move-in Day! Lauren, Sam, & Sterlyng welcomed new students and their families to Brownlee
A portion of the 2023 team enjoying a break together
Gathering together to view the annual fireworks display is a timeless OL tradition
Madi & Mazie serving up gourmet sodas for the 2022 Drink & Doodle
Sterlyng & Justine interviewing Ms. Bassi-Cook for the "Hi, I'm Here to Help You" resource panel
Jenna showing off her favorite way to refuel during a busy day
Sarah & Olivia helping to keep our new students fed during Friday Night Frenzy
Sofie & Ari posing with Nurses Jackie & Eric for the campus resource scavenger hunt
Chris, Lauren, Sarah, Matthew
Ellen & Chris
Bea, Lauryn, Mazie, Dori
Rylee and Emma