Orientation

SOUL Description

Student Orientation Undergraduate Leaders (SOUL) support incoming New Mountaineers during their  Orientation experience. 

Position Announcement:  The Department of New Mountaineer and Family Engagement (NMFE) is seeking applications for Student Orientation Undergraduate Leaders (SOUL) for the 2024 - 2025 academic year. The NMFE Team aids in transitioning all new students and family members into the Mountaineer Community by fostering a sense of belonging and purpose through intentional, dynamic, student and family-centered experiences. 

Position Title:  Student Orientation Undergraduate Leader (SOUL) within the Department of New Mountaineer & Family Engagement at Appalachian State University. 

Duties and Responsibilities 
Student Orientation Undergraduate Leaders will: 

• Facilitate engaging and well-organized small group meetings and activities for New Mountaineers to build community and foster a sense of belonging. 

• Share knowledge about App State’s traditions, campus resources, and expectations. When appropriate, refer students or families to additional resources and campus departments.

• Provide positive customer service to all students and families. 

• Help students and families acclimate to the physical campus by leading campus tours, providing directions, and accompanying them to activities throughout the Orientation experience. 

• Serve as a role model and resource to students while representing App State. 

• Provide assistance to faculty and staff who present or advise during the Orientation Experience.

• Other duties as assigned by the New Mountaineer and Family Engagement team relating to New Mountaineer & Family Orientation.   

Position Requirements

• Be enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student in Spring.

• Have a cumulative GPA of 2.80 or higher from the current semester. 

• Be in good academic and judicial standing with the university.

• Active engagement in all spring training, retreats, and team-building activities. 

• Show the potential for development in the following skillsets and qualities: excitement to learn and grow as a student leader, ability to serve as a positive role model for incoming Mountaineers and families, flexibility, problem-solving skills, commitment to identity development and appreciation of diverse perspectives, effective communication, and ability to work effectively and positively on a team. 

Desired Learning Outcomes  

The preferred learning objectives and experiential outcomes below will outline anticipated growth and development throughout your SOUL experience. Students interested in being a SOUL should actively engage in training, workshops, team-building activities, and more to achieve these desired learning objectives:

• Apply knowledge of campus resources to support New Mountaineers and families during their transition to Appalachian State University. 

• Communicate to a broad range of constituencies using a variety of delivery techniques and mediums. 

• Utilize personal leadership strengths and facilitation tools to promote and encourage active engagement during Orientation sessions.

• Management of multiple tasks and duties throughout Orientation sessions. 

Compensation

Tangible benefits or compensation for this position include: 

• Competitive compensation with a starting hourly rate of $12.00/per hour. With anticipated 30-40 hour weeks during Orientation sessions (mid-May through mid-July, additional August & January Orientation paid hours vary based on availability). 

• Summer Membership to University Recreation Facilities. 

• On-campus housing accommodation is provided during summer employment (mid-May through mid-July).

• On-campus parking pass provided during summer employment (mid-May through mid-July). 

• Lunch and Snacks are provided during Orientation sessions. Additional meals will likely be provided throughout summer employment. 

• Exclusive SOUL Uniform will be provided. 

Intangible benefits or perks of this position include: 

• Gain both leadership and professional development experience in public speaking, group facilitation, time management, and cultural competency. 

• Increase familiarity and knowledge of App State’s traditions, history, and resources. Share wisdom, knowledge, and valuable first-hand perspective with incoming Mountaineers and their families. 

• Meet and work alongside App State administrators, faculty, and staff. 

• Be an available member of a supportive team while having an unforgettable summer experience in the High Country.