Are you interested in earning a $900 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.
Don't miss your chance — apply today! Applications will close on Sunday, April 19 or when all positions are filled. To access the application, log in with your dupage.edu credentials when prompted.
New Student Orientation
New Student Orientation (NSO), held before the Fall and Spring semesters, is a program dedicated to welcoming new students to College of DuPage. New Chaparrals are given the chance to meet other students, faculty and staff, learn about the opportunities available to them on campus, and feel prepared to begin their student life at College of DuPage with confidence.
New Student Orientation Leaders
Orientation Leaders (OLs) are the face of the college at New Student Orientation, 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 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 and source of support to incoming students and their families at NSO
- Facilitating group activities and social engagement with new students at NSO
- Completing set up, preparation, and event activities for NSO
- Completing self-reflections and outreach hours
Frequently Asked Questions
To become an Orientation Leader, you must be:
- Currently enrolled at College of DuPage and returning for the following Fall semester (at least part-time, 6 credit hours)
- In good academic standing with a GPA of 2.0 or higher
- Able to work with students, faculty and professional staff
- Ready to work in a team environment
- Committed to completing a portfolio of reflections based on your experience in the program
As an Orientation Leader, you will:
- Gain exceptional experience in leadership, group communication, active listening, teamwork and more
- Be part of a team and meet new friends
- Participate in several group activities, including training and social activities
- Develop connections with peers, faculty and staff while learning more about COD and its resources
- Make a positive contribution to the community while getting the most out of your college experience
Upon successful completion of the program, Orientation Leaders are awarded a scholarship of $900 and are eligible to receive letters of recommendation.
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.
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, appreciation of multiple perspectives, identifying strengths, mental health awareness, and small group communication. OLs are required to attend all trainings, orientation sessions, and required outreach hours prior to scheduling their scholarship meeting.
Fall 2026 Orientation Dates
Fall 2026 New Student Orientation will be held in August 2026. Visit cod.edu/nso for more information.
If you have questions regarding the Orientation Leader Program, email StudentLife.NSO@cod.edu.