Ever since I moved into college my freshman year, I knew from the second I drove onto campus that I wanted to be an Orientation Leader. Muhlenberg is so special in the way they introduce the first year students to the campus. Right from the start when you drive up to your first-year dorm, there are Orientation Leaders and other student volunteers jumping up and down, screaming out of excitement for you to be there. When I saw those OL’s in front of Walz Hall, I told my mom, “I want that to be me next year.”
Fast forward a year later, and I successfully led my own Orientation group for four days. The process was rewarding yet tiring, but I wouldn’t trade this experience and those memories for anything in the world. The beautiful thing about being an Orientation Leader at Muhlenberg is that everyone is there for the same reason: we love Muhlenberg with everything we’ve got.
Over the course of the four day orientation weekend, it was beautiful to watch the evolution of the new students become adjusted to college life and all the resources available on campus. From the first day jitters, both from the OL’s and the first year students, to comfortably sending them off to Opening Convocation on Sunday evening, move-in weekend is filled with laughs, challenges, new friendships, and endless support.
The biggest surprise to me about being an Orientation Leader was gaining a new family on campus filled with the most amazing people I have ever met. When I applied to be an Orientation Leader, I had the intention of wanting to give the incoming students the best and most comfortable transition into college life possible. Yet, little did I know that within the process I would become so close with my fellow OL’s and gain the most amazing, loving support system on this campus.
If you have ever had any thoughts about being an Orientation Leader, no matter what year you are, apply! The impact you can make on people’s lives is one of the best feelings in the world and one of the most rewarding experiences. Being an Orientation Leader has taught me new things about myself, and I am forever grateful for the lessons I’ve learned, the moments I’ve shared, and memories I will cherish forever.