Orientation Leaders

Orientation Leaders (OLs) play a vital role in the transition of new students and their families to the Fashion Institute of Technology during New Student Orientation held in August and January and through both formal and informal activities through the entire first year experience. 

New Student Orientation sets the tone for a new student’s experience at FIT and it is an OL’s responsibility to help make the orientation experience a success. OLs not only serve as role models to the incoming students, but also major resources for support and information. This position is a critical leadership opportunity at FIT and requires a high level of energy, student interaction, time management, and most importantly a LOVE for FIT! 

Orientation is an exciting and enjoyable experience, and it is necessary to have the support and collaboration from all Orientation Leaders to make it successful! This is a student leader paid stipend position; no federal work-study is required and all students welcome to apply*!

*International students must be eligible or the ability to become eligible to work in the United States.

Orientation Leaders are expected to:

  • Serve as a representative of the Fashion Institute of Technology and Department of Student Life
  • Be able, on time, ready, and excited to participate in the day’s events during Orientation and Trainings
  • Act as an academic and social role model for current and incoming students
  • Be available for and co-lead their Orientation group throughout the entire Orientation program
  • Lead discussion groups with students, including icebreakers and other engaging group activities
  • Have a willingness to help out whenever needed
  • Create an enjoyable and inviting atmosphere for all students
  • Set an example for all students by upholding FIT policies and demonstrating responsible behavior
  • Create and/or design various Orientation resources and materials
  • Co-present information at various Orientation programs and events
  • Report any and all student concerns, issues and emergencies to a supervisor
  • Assist the Department of Residence Life with new student move-in (includes moving in new students)
  • Assist with the assessment plan for Orientation Programs
  • Assist with the recruitment of future Orientation Leaders

Selection Criteria include: 

  • Must have and maintain a cumulative GPA of a 3.0 or higher
  • Must be in good judicial standing (not on Residential Life probation, Student Life probation, and/or University Disciplinary probation)
  • Must be enrolled as a full-time student at FIT (12 credit minimum)
  • Have attended and completed at least 1 full semester at FIT or have 1 year of Student Leader experience from a previous institution (Fall 2023/Spring 2024 first year students are eligible to apply as training/position will begin in Fall 2024)
  • Strongly encourage involvement in the FIT community (i.e. participation in a club/organization/department)
  • Ability to work with a diverse group of students
  • Must be a good communicator, be flexible, and able to think on their feet
  • Must be punctual, dependable, and dedicated
  • Must be positive, enthusiastic, and a role model for their peers
  • Possess strong leadership qualities
  • Take initiative on projects and tasks; able to self-direct
  • Works wells as a member of a small and large group 

Required Activities

All orientation leaders are expected to:

  • Be able to attend all trainings and prep sessions: August 12 - August 16, 2024 *subject to change*
  • Be able to attend all of New Student Orientation Week: August 19 - August 24, 2024 *subject to change*
  • Abide by the Fashion Institute of Technology code of conduct and remain in good academic and judicial standing throughout training, orientation sessions, and the year
  • Strongly encourage/please do not hold ANY other job/position on/off campus during orientation leader training and New Student Orientation Week

Orientation Leader recruitment takes place during the Spring semester. 

Questions? Please contact Julia Romano, Orientation & New Student Programs Counselor, at [email protected].