How do I apply to be an OA for 2008?

If you are interested in applying to be either an OA or Lead OA Coordinator or Supervisor for Orientation 2008, you MUST attend one OA Information Session to register for access to the online application.

When are the OA Information Sessions?

The dates, times and locations of the OA Information Sessions have been scheduled to try and accommodate a variety of students’ schedules.  The details are:

Do I need to bring anything to the OA Information Session?

We suggest that you bring a pen to take notes. You will be provided with handouts at the Information Session. You will also need your RIT Computer Account username and password to sign in to our online application system.

I was an OA last year.  Do I need to attend an OA Information Session?

Yes. All applicants, new and returning, must attend an Information Session. You will need to sign in to gain access to the online application for 2008. Also, there are changes to the Orientation Program this year that you will need to know about.

I am out of town on co-op and will have a hard time attending an Information Session. What should I do?

You should try to make arrangements to come back to RIT for one of the Information Sessions. If this is impossible, please contact our office ASAP at 585-475-4899 or e-mail.

What does the OA application look like? How much time will it take to complete?

The OA application is completely online and asks general information about you and your leadership and work experience. You must also complete one essay question. Additionally, you must ask someone in a professional capacity (cannot be another student, including an Orientation Assistant, Resident Advisor, member of Student Government or another club/organization) to complete an online reference letter for you.  The application including the essay should take no more than one hour to complete. You can save your application and return to work on it later, however, once you SUBMIT it, you will no longer be able to access it.

When is the application due?

Your complete application (including essay) and reference letter, are all due no later than Friday, February 1, 2008.

Will I be interviewed for the position?

Lead OA Coordinator and Supervisor candidates are interviewed on a 1:1 basis the week of February 11, 2008.  All OA candidates will participate in a Group Process Day (GPD), on Saturday, March 15 or Sunday, March 30 which includes ice-breakers, group activities and a 1:1 interview. You will be asked to select preferred interview dates/times when completing the application.

I am interested in being an RA. Can I be an RA and an OA?

You are encouraged to apply for both leadership positions, however, you can only serve in one position as there is significant overlap in the training schedules and job requirements.

What is the difference between a Lead OA and an OA?

Lead OA Coordinator: The Lead OA Coordinators are members of the Orientation Leadership Team. While this position is not a highly visible one, it involves a great deal of interaction between the Orientation Assistant and professional staff and is critical to the success of the Orientation Program. Lead OA Coordinators will not be responsible for a group of first -year students and are supervised by the Professional Staff and the Student Orientation Coordinators (SOC).

Lead OA Supervisor: The Lead OA Supervisors are members of the Orientation Leadership Team. The Lead OA Supervisors are responsible for supervising and holding their Orientation Assistant Team accountable. Lead OA Supervisors will not be responsible for a group of first -year students and are supervised by the Professional Staff and the Student Orientation Coordinators (SOC).

OA: OAs are responsible for facilitating the transition of a group of approximately 25 first -year students representing multiple programs within the OAs College. OAs are supervised by the Lead OA Supervisors and the Professional Staff and will also take direction at times from the Lead OA Coordinators.

Orientation Assistant candidates may also indicate on their application if they would like to be considered for the ASL Designate or Commuter Designate positions.

Please read the job descriptions and come to an Information Session for more complete information.

I heard that being an OA is exhausting. Why would I want to do it?

Being an OA is a fantastic opportunity to develop and enhance leadership and communication skills, serve as ambassador for RIT and to participate in a significant Institute initiative. OAs do put in long hours, but the rewards are well worth it.  It’s an experience all our former OA’s say they will never forget!

Is training required?

Yes. Training is not only critical to the success of the Orientation Program, but it is also a lot of fun. Training will include many group dynamic and team building activities, as well as sessions on diversity and Deaf culture and many of RITs rich resources. Our former OAs always tell us that it is a lot of fun and a great opportunity to learn more about themselves and RIT.

What are the time requirements of the position? When is training?

Training for Lead OAs will begin on Saturday, August 16 and Monday, August 18 for OAs. Training typically begins at 9:00am and concludes after dinner, but many optional activities such as an ASL class and "staff night out" extend until later in the evening. Orientation 2008 will begin on Sunday, August 24 (move-in day) and will conclude on Sunday, August 31.

Do OAs get paid?

Yes. OAs are paid as student leaders for one week of training and one week of Orientation. The pay for Lead OAs is slightly higher than for OAs. In addition to a paycheck, OAs receive debit for food purchases during training and Orientation and "OA gear" that consists of staff shirts and a variety of other goodies. OAs who live in RIT housing move in early without any extra fees incurred.

Can I work or be on a local co-op during Orientation?

No. Due to the intensity and time commitment of the training and Orientation schedules, your full time job for 2 weeks is being an OA. We also ask that you dissafiliate from other clubs/organizations during this time so you may concentrate on your job and being the best OA you can be. OAs may not particpate in a fall quarter sport.

Who do I contact if I have more questions?

You should attend an OA Information Session You may also contact Shawna Lusk, Director of the New Student Orientation Program by email or by phone at 585-475-4899.