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.
Complete the inquiry form to receive more information about the 2026 Orientation Leader (OL) Program.
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
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 your portfolio of reflections based on your experience in the program
As an Orientation Leader, you will:
- 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 $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, 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 2026 Orientation Dates
Spring 2026 New Student Orientation will be held in January 2026. Visit cod.edu/nso for more information.
If you have questions regarding the Orientation Leader Program, email StudentLife.NSO@cod.edu.