New Student Programs Leadership Positions

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Dear New Student Programs Leadership Candidates:

We welcome your application for the Student Programs & Leadership Development and the Office of International Programs International student leadership positions.

Part of the mission of Student Programs & Leadership Development and the Office of International Programs is to introduce new students to the developmental resources, unique opportunities, and engaging experiences afforded them while attending Fairfield University. Through a comprehensive and collaborative effort, we welcome students to a community of active and service-oriented leaders who are eager to assist them in the understanding and appreciation of the unique experience Fairfield University offers as a Catholic university in the Jesuit tradition.

These positions are exceptional leadership opportunities that offer many challenges and rewards to grow as a paraprofessional. We hope that students will find the selection process to be an educational opportunity to learn about themselves as well as the Department of Student Programs & Leadership Development and the Office of International Programs.

New Student Leader (NSL)

New Student Leader - Parent/Guardian Focus
New Student Leader - Transfer Student Focus
New Student Leader - International Focus
NSL Job Descriptions, Code of Ethics, and Important Dates
NSL Application Instructions

Orientation Support Team (OST) - Follow Instructions for Job Description, Code of Ethics, and Application

• Login to Mentor
• Click "Institutional Tools" in the top navigation bar
• Select "Applications" tab
• Select "OST Application"

FAQs about the New Student Leader and Orientation Support Team

We wish you all the best with your application process. If you have any questions, please contact John St. Marie, Graduate Assistant, at john.st.marie@fairfield.edu or ext. 2375 or for inquiries regarding New Student Leader - International Focus, contact Shea Spitz, Coordinator of International Recruitment, sspitz@fairfield.edu or (203) 254 4000 ext. 2591.

FAQs about the New Student Leader Position

How many New Student Leader (NSL) positions will be offered?

Approximately 50 students will be offered a position. A small number of NSLs will concentrate on parents/guardians and transfer students, while the majority will focus on first-year students. All NSLs will facilitate an FYE seminar.

Can I study abroad and still be an NSL during the academic year 2013-14?

Yes, but students must study abroad during spring semester. On-campus attendance will be required during fall semester.

Can I apply to be an NSL, even though I am studying abroad next semester (spring 2013)? Won't I miss all the training and the overnight retreat?

Yes, students can still apply and must submit an application by the February 1 deadline. Students will be interviewed via Skype or phone. If selected, Student Programs & Leadership Development will ensure NSLs receive the necessary information while abroad. These students will miss out on key bonding experiences and information sessions; however, former student leaders who have missed these experiences have proven to be effective leaders and integral parts of the team.

When is the application deadline?

NSL/OST application is now due February 25. References are due by March 4th.

Can an applicant be a first-year student?

Yes. Student Programs & Leadership Development is currently accepting all applicants for both the NSL and OST positions. Sophomores and juniors are strongly encouraged to apply as they bring added experience.

Do NSLs facilitate an FYE seminar?

Yes. New Student Leaders facilitate orientation groups during June Orientation and Fall Welcome, as well as co-facilitate an FYE course with a Community Associate (CA).

Do NSLs who focus on parent/guardian, transfer students, and international teach an FYE seminar?

Yes they do, however, their Orientation group may not be the same group that they teach in the fall. Orientation groups transitioning to FYE groups are still not guaranteed. However, if we can, NSLs focusing on parents/guardians, transfer, and international students will more than likely not have the same Orientation group as FYE group.

Will I be paid as an NSL?

Yes. NSLs receive a total of $500 for their work.

When I was a first-year student we had Orientation Leaders (OLs) run our Orientation group and a First Year Mentor (FYM) facilitate the FYE seminar. Do these positions still exist?

In the best interest of first-year students, Student Programs & Leadership Development has decided to merge the positions and create a student leader position that mentors students from Orientation through their first year here at Fairfield University.

If the positions are merged, will NSLs have their Orientation group as their FYE group?

As of right now, that seems to be ideal but it is not necessarily feasible. Student Programs & Leadership Development is determining the best process for first-year students regarding continuity of groups between Orientation and FYE.

How long is the commitment to the NSL position?

NSLs sign a contract that students will be expected to uphold from March 8, 2013 to May 2014 (approximately 1 year). However, exceptions will be made for those studying abroad during spring 2014.

Are the required dates in the job description really required?

Yes, all required dates are essential to becoming an NSL. Please mark your calendars.

What if I have an academic conflict with the NSL class next semester?

NSL Classes are weekly for 1.5 hours starting the week of March 18-April 22 on Fridays at 4-5:30 p.m. (exception March 22 & April 12 classes will be from 5-7 p.m.). If students have an academic class that conflicts with this time, they should notify Student Programs & Leadership Development.

FAQs about the Orientation Support Team Position

Will I be paid for working on the Orientation Support Team (OST)?

OST members are crucial volunteers that help June Orientation and Fall Welcome run smoothly. Although, these are non-paid positions, OST members will gain leadership experience and develop an understanding of the Orientation program. This position is an excellent stepping stone for future leadership positions.

What does being a member of the OST mean?

During Orientation and Fall Welcome, OSTs have the opportunity to work alongside NSLs in facilitating orientation activities and work behind the scenes to help both Orientation and Fall Welcome run smoothly.

If I do not receive an offer for an NSL position, can I still be an OST?

If the selection committee feels that a student fits the criteria to be a great OST, but may not be ready for the NSL position, they will evaluate and make decisions based on the initial application.