As a result of being an Orientation Leader, students will:

• Develop effective leadership through active reflection, self-evaluation and application of leadership theories, while exploring individual characteristics and values.
• Articulate common challenges and concerns faced by new students and their supporters during their transition to the University of South Carolina.
• Recognize how different backgrounds and experiences impact the transition experience, and learn how to engage with various populations.
• Enhance ability to adapt quickly to changing situations while managing time and responsibilities in a fast-paced environment. 
• Build and refine interpersonal communication skills, including public speaking, active listening, customer service and managing crises or conflicts.
• Facilitate discussions based on the tenets of the Carolinian Creed and their role in the larger Carolina community.  
• Demonstrate strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills in various situations, making informed decisions that support the success of the Orientation program and the populations served.  

• Present, facilitate and lead small and large groups of new students on topics related to the student experience, USC traditions, campus resources and academic success.
• Share key information about policies, academics, resources, culture and traditions with new students and their supporters.
• Support Orientation events by helping with preparation and programmatic support.
• Participate in weekly training sessions and occasional one-on-one meetings with Team Leaders and professional staff.
• Model exceptional leadership and customer service while serving as a positive role model for new students.
• Attend and engage in the Spring Learning Southeast Conference.
• Assist academic advisors in guiding students through the course registration process and understanding the major maps and required courses.
• Exhibit flexibility, dependability, responsibility, enthusiasm and punctuality.
• Occasionally lift and carry objects up to 50 lbs. as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Applicants must:

• Be currently enrolled undergraduate students at the University of South Carolina, graduating December 2026 or later.
  • Summer classes are not permitted unless approved by a supervisor
  • Must be in good standing with the University and must maintain a minimum overall GPA of 2.5
  • If below a 2.5, the applicant must meet with an Office of New Student Orientation professional prior to applying. Note: In the case of a GPA being below 3.0, student will set up a semesterly meeting with the Student Success Center
• Be available to attend all required events (see Important Dates addendum).
• Abide by federal, state and university policies.
• Model professionalism, critical thinking, reliability, flexibility and energy.
• Be able to occasionally lift and carry objects under 50 lbs.
• Must attend an Orientation Leader Interest session.

Orientation Leaders commit to weekly training sessions throughout the spring semester, Training Camp in May and full-time responsibilities during New Student Orientation season. Additionally, there may be occasional events or meetings to help you further prepare for the role. Your dedication will be essential to creating an exceptional experience for incoming students. View our important dates below:

• Orientation Leader Welcome Social: December 2 | time TBD
• Weekly Spring Training: Jan. - May 2026 | Every Wednesday | 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
• Orientation Leader Retreat (Overnight): Estimated Jan. 23-25, 2026
• NODA Spring Learning Southeast (Overnight): March 12-15, 2026
• Workshop Weekend: April 10-12, 2026
• Contracted Live-In Period: May – July 2026
• Training Camp: May 2026
• Sponsored Events: May – August 2026
• Summer Orientation: May - Aug. 2026
• Carolina Welcome Events (First Night Carolina, First Day Photos, etc.): August 2026
• Orientation Team Banquet: Sep. 2026
• 2027 Orientation Leader Recruitment Events: Sep. - Oct. 2026
• Spring Orientation: Jan. 2027
• Attendance at requested events: TBD

Please note that all dates are subject to change. Dates and events may also be added.

• Paid $12/hour during summer employment
• Free, on-campus housing provided during the summer
• University gear, including Orientation staff polos, name tags and t-shirts
• Most meals provided during Training Camp and New Student Orientation
• CarolinaCash stipend
• Discounted summer rate at the Wellness and Fitness Center
• Discounted summer rate for parking
• Professional development through mentorship, training and hands-on experience
• Networking opportunities with university staff and fellow student leaders
• In-depth knowledge of campus resources, services, and traditions
• Valuable work experience
• Qualifies for inclusion on the USC Experience Transcript
• Can contribute to the Graduation with Leadership Distinction requirements
• May be eligible for internship credit—ask for more information

How many Orientation Leaders are selected each year?

There is not a specific number of Orientation Leaders we hire. Typically, our team ranges from 30-45 Orientation Leaders.

What are you looking for in an Orientation Leader?

We’re looking for current USC students from every major, background and involvement who are excited to welcome new Gamecocks. You don’t have to be an extrovert or know everything from day one; we work hard to train and develop you. What matters most is your potential and willingness to learn. We value skills like critical thinking, problem solving, team work, and customer service, and we want our team to reflect all areas of the student body so every new Gamecock can see themselves in their Orientation Leaders.

What does an Orientation Leader do?

In the spring, Orientation Leaders train weekly on Wednesdays from 4-6 pm to prepare for the role. During the summer, a typical day might include welcoming new students and their supporters, leading small groups, giving directions around campus, assisting with program logistics, speaking on student panels, and providing top-notch customer service. No two days are exactly the same—but every day is about helping Gamecocks feel right where they belong.

What does the application process look like?

First-time applicants start with a group interview, where you’ll participate in activities with other candidates so we can learn about your teamwork, communication style and problem-solving skills. If you move forward, you’ll be invited to a 30-minute individual interview where we will dive deeper into your experiences, your goals for being an OL and how you’d handle the roles and responsibilities required of the position.

Can I be an Orientation Leader if I’m involved in a student organization, fraternity or sorority?

Absolutely! Many OLs are active in student organizations, Greek Life, and other campus roles. If you’re concerned about scheduling conflicts during the summer or early fall, talk with us—we're often able to coordinate around other commitments. Panhellenic members will be excused for work weeks and recruitment. Resident Assistants (RAs) will be excused for RA training and required resident events. Students working with Pillars for Carolina will be excused for their program weeks.

Do I have to attend an interest meeting in order to apply?

Yes, you must attend an interest meeting to apply. These meetings are an opportunity to learn more about the Orientation Leader position, meet our staff and gain an understanding of what is expected of the team. If unable to attend on any of the scheduled dates, please email our office at orientation@sc.edu to learn about the next steps.