STUDENT-Orientation Mentor

Orientation Mentor (OMs)

The Office of New Student and Transition Programs (NSTP) supports first-years, transfer students, and their families as they transition into the IC community. NSTP employs 5-8 Orientation Mentors (OMs) who assist in managing student staff, supporting our new students and their families during their transition to Ithaca College during Fall Orientation, and implementing orientation programs. To hold this esteemed position, we are seeking students who have worked as an Orientation Leader (OL) for at least one Orientation program and who meet the criteria listed below.

Responsibilities

• Assist NSTP staff in the preparation of Orientation activities and materials including, but not limited to: 
  • event set-up/tear down, check-in process, and troubleshooting
  • escorting students/families and guests around campus 
  • participation in meals and evening activities
  • crisis response; 
  • and other duties as assigned 
• Facilitate and effectively manage small group discussions with Orientation Leaders (OLs) including resource sharing, insights and strategies for working with new students, supporting students' transition to college, self-identity exploration, etc.
• Serve as a positive role model, mentor, and educator for OLs; serving as a leader for OLs throughout their training and the orientation program
• Develop and demonstrate multicultural awareness and contribute to cultivating an inclusive, diverse, and respectful college community. Employ anti-racist and anti-oppressive practices and principles throughout all work.   
• Lead and participate in OL Training week sessions via OM panels, co-presentations, and contributing to NSTP staff presentations
• Serve as an outstanding student role model by articulating and exemplifying Ithaca College's academic and community expectations
• Provide feedback to supervisor regarding New Student and Transition Program events, services, and resources in relation to the student experience
• Educate incoming students on academic, social, career, and mental health support services on campus
• Attend and participate in the following:
  • Complete at least four SLI sessions: one in each of the following areas plus one of your choice (more specific information will be shared with those selected):
    • Leading Others
    • Leading Self
    • Leading in a Diverse World
  • Attend the Orientation Staff Kickoff and Meet & Greet: 
    • April 22, 2026, 6-7 p.m.
  • Participate in all of the following:
    • OM Spring Retreat, date and time TBD pending OM's schedules
    • OM Training, August 6-7, 2026
    • OL Training, August 10-14, 2026
    • Orientation, August 17-23, 2026

Job Requirements

All candidates must:

• Have worked as an OL during at least one Orientation program at Ithaca College
• Be in good judicial and academic standing (with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 maintained through the Spring semester)
• Maintain full-time enrollment as an undergraduate or graduate student at the time of hire through December 2026
• Adhere to the Office of New Student & Transition Programs policies, the Student Conduct Code, and all national, state, and local laws throughout the duration of your employment

Employment Details

• All orientation staff (O-Staff) will receive comprehensive leadership development training designed to increase knowledge of campus resources, effective communication strategies, leadership tools, crisis management strategies, and more to create a high-functioning, cohesive orientation team.
• Orientation Mentors will be paid at an hourly rate of $16.30 over the employment period.

2026 Work Schedule

• Orientation Staff Kickoff and Meet & Greet: April 22, 2026 (see specifics below)
  • Required (paid) – Staff Kickoff Meeting: 6–7 p.m.
  • Optional (unpaid) – Meet & Greet Social: 7–8 p.m. 
• By April 24th: Complete at least four SLI sessions; one in each of the following areas and one of your choice:
  • Leading Others
  • Leading Self
  • Leading in a Diverse World
• Orientation Mentor Spring Retreat: date and time TBD pending OM's schedules 
• Orientation Staff Move-In: August 8-9
• Orientation Staff Training: August ~37.5 hours)
• Fall Orientation: August 17-23, 2026 (~30 hours)

Qualifications

• Excellent interpersonal, teamwork, and communication skills
• Demonstrated respect for others' rights, feelings, lifestyles, and diverse backgrounds
• Demonstrated multicultural awareness and contributions to cultivating an inclusive, diverse, and respectful college community
• Proven work ethic, time management, and attention to detail
• Proven ability to present yourself professionally and confidently to students, parents and family members, and campus partners
• Ability to manage stress effectively, support others' stress management, and troubleshoot issues as they arise
• Experience working directly with people from traditionally marginalized populations 

Application Instructions

Interested applicants need to submit an updated resume and cover letter by November 10, 2025.