Are you interested in earning an $800 scholarship, meeting new people, and developing your leadership skills for the competitive job market? If so, we need YOU to share your story and help create a fun and exciting experience for our new students.
Applications to become a Fall 2025 Orientation Leader will open on ChapLife on Feb. 3, 2025. Please complete this form to be contacted when applications open!
New Student Orientation
New Student Orientation (NSO) is a program dedicated to welcoming new students to College of DuPage and encouraging them to get to know other students, faculty, staff, and our wonderful campus. Our goal is to get new students excited about being a Chaparral! We strive to help them learn about the opportunities available to them as they begin their student life at College of DuPage.
New Student Orientation Leaders
Orientation Leaders (OLs) are the face of the college, serving as role models and sources of support and information for new students. They play a major role in facilitating the adjustment of new students and their families to College of DuPage. OLs share accurate information about academic, personal and social resources while working collaboratively with faculty, staff and student workers from other areas on campus. Representing the College in a positive and professional manner, OLs help make the transition to COD easier and more exciting for new students.
Expectations include
- Attending and participating in all training, team-building sessions, and NSO days
- Serving as an initial contact person to incoming students and their families at NSO
- Facilitating group activities and social engagement with new students at orientation
- Acting as a positive role-model and a resource person to new students
- Completing set up, preparation, and event activities for NSO
- Following up with students after NSO
- Committing to completing required new student outreach hours (1-5 hours)
- Completing Phase 1 of the Living Leadership Program (LLP)
Frequently Asked Questions
In order to be considered to become an Orientation Leader, you must be:
- Currently enrolled at College of DuPage
- A returning student the following Fall, enrolled in at least 6 credit hours
- In good academic standing at COD, with a minimum GPA of 2.0
- Able to work with students, faculty and professional staff
- Excited to work in a team environment and being open to address groups of people
- Positive, enthusiastic, and motivated to succeed
- Committed to completing Phase 1 of the Living Leadership Program (includes completing Phase 1 Reflection Guides/Portfolio)
As an Orientation Leader, you will:
- Complete Phase 1 of the Living Leadership Program (see "What is the Living Leadership Program and how will I complete Phase 1?" below for more information)
- Gain exceptional experience in leadership, public speaking, active listening, and teamwork
- Be part of a team and meet new friends
- Participate in several group activities, including training and social activities
- Develop connections with various faculty and staff while learning more about the college and its resources
- Make a positive contribution to the community, as well as make the most of your college experience
Upon successful completion of the program, Orientation Leaders are awarded a scholarship of $800 and are eligible to receive letters of recommendation. In addition, OLs receive a certificate for completing Phase 1 of the Living Leadership Program.
Successful completion of the program requires attendance at all training dates and New Student Orientation dates, fulfillment of Outreach Hours at the beginning of the fall semester, and reflection through feedback forms and a scholarship meeting. Failure to complete the program may result in total loss or significant reduction of scholarship.
The Living Leadership Program is a free, non-transcript certificate program at College of DuPage focused on developing students into active leaders and positive change-makers. The program is divided into 2 phases to meet the diverse needs of College of DuPage students.
Phase 1 introduces you to leadership and focuses on leading of self and others through practical skill development workshops and involvement in campus life. Students who complete Phase 1 are honored at the Annual Student Life Celebration and Awards Ceremony in April. After completing the portfolio students are also eligible to move on to Phase 2.
If you are selected to become an Orientation Leader, part of your commitment to NSO and the OL program is completing Phase 1 of the Living Leadership Program. The requirements for OLs completing Phase 1 are as follows:
- Participate in the Orientation Leader Program
- Complete 5 Leadership development workshops, including StrengthsQuest
Orientation Leader Trainings are designed to provide OL's with important skills for NSO and life. OLs are trained in leadership development, team building, creating lasting connections, diversity/inclusiveness, identifying strengths, mental health awareness, and small group communication. OLs are required to attend all trainings, orientation sessions, and complete new student outreach hours prior to scheduling their individual scholarship meeting.
Spring 2025 Orientation Dates
Spring 2025 Orientation will take place on Jan. 16, 2025. Visit New Student Orientation for more information.
If you have questions regarding the Orientation Leader Program, email StudentLife.NSO@cod.edu.
Contact Information
New Student Orientation
(630) 942-2243
Email: studentlife@cod.edu