View of Saint Joseph Hall, a stone building with terra cotta roof tiles, through the trees

Becoming an OL

Orientation Leaders (OL) support the Division of Student Life in the implementation of New Student Orientation (NSO). The mission of NSO is to provide the necessary foundation for new students to effectively transition into the Chestnut Hill College community and to achieve success both inside and outside of the classroom. Orientation leaders act as the primary group of students to work with first-year and transfer students and are instrumental to the adjustment of both students and parents during the transition to college.

During Orientation, OLs are assigned to a group of new students and are responsible for conducting small and large group interaction exercises, while also providing information and support necessary for a smooth transition into Chestnut Hill College. Becoming an Orientation Leader bears huge responsibility as well as a great amount of privilege.

Skills that Orientation Leaders can expect to gain from this experience:

Enhance communication, leadership, and group facilitation skills
Develop personally and professionally
Increase knowledge of and commitment to the CHC Community
Improve critical thinking and problem-solving skills

Review the Orientation Leaders Job Description prior to applying.
Note: If you need a copy of the job description in another format besides a PDF, please contact orientation@chc.edu

Important Dates to Remember

Monday, February 16 – Applications open for 2026-2027 Orientation Leaders
Monday, March 9 at 1pm – Applications close for 2026-2027 Orientation Leaders
March 13 – March 19 – Individual Interviews for Orientation Leader candidates

As part of the application process, make sure to:

Submit a resume. If you need help creating one, contact the Office of Career Development
Answer the Orientation Leader application questions. Make sure to answer each question with a full response. See the details of the questions in the application link below.

1.          Please explain why you chose to apply for the Orientation Leader position. What was the most impactful/memorable part of your Orientation experience?
2.          Explain how will you ensure that Orientation responsibilities remain a priority during training, Griffin Day, and Orientation week, even when balancing other commitments?
3.          Orientation Leaders are expected to model professionalism and uphold College expectations at all times, including on social media. How do you intentionally hold yourself accountable to these standards? What life experiences have contributed to your professionalism and leadership skills?
4.          How have your experiences at CHC shaped your understanding of the College’s core values and mission? How will you instill these values in our incoming students?
5.          Drawing on your experience as a Chestnut Hill College student, how would you support a new student who appears overwhelmed or disengaged during Orientation?
6.          How will your experiences as a returning student help you contribute to an inclusive, welcoming Orientation environment while working collaboratively with fellow Orientation Leaders?

Responsibilities of an Orientation Leader

Attend all trainings and meetings. If an OL is unable to attend a training or meeting for valid reason (athletics, class schedule, etc.), OL must seek approval in advance.
- Attend Welcome Meeting
- Attend the Griffin Day
- Attend August training
- Attend all Orientation activities
Help as a “Griffin Guide” on the first two days of classes, helping new students find their classrooms (details will be discussed).
Be prepared to complete evaluations of yourself, peers (fellow Orientation leaders), and the Orientation program.
Be available to attend OL closing celebration at the conclusion of the program. Details will follow with more specific information.

For any questions regarding the OL selection process, please email orientation@chc.edu

Apply Now to Become an OL!