Become an Orientation Leader

3 new students walking through welcome link during orientation

Orientation Leaders

Orientation leaders enthusiastically demonstrate their Grizzly pride while assisting new Grizzlies transition into, and get the most out of, their GGC experience.

Thank you for your interest in becoming a Grizzly Orientation leader or marketing and office assistant. New Student Connections annually selects orientation leaders to serve as resources, facilitators and official representatives of the college during Grizzly Orientation and other high-impact events. The application period opens at the beginning of each fall semester.

Overview

Hiring Process

Frequently Asked Questions

Overview

Develop advanced public speaking, leadership and facilitation skills.
Gain paid, professional on-campus experience that strengthens your resume.
Build meaningful connections with campus leaders, offices and community partners.
Expand your network and form lasting friendships with fellow Grizzlies.
Grow in confidence, professionalism and school pride – plus receive exclusive GGC swag.

Welcome and direct new students and families during Grizzly Orientation and additional high-impact events.
Facilitate discussions and lead campus tours for small groups.
Serve as a knowledgeable, approachable resource on campus life and the student academic experience.
Collaborate with staff and campus partners to ensure a seamless experience for new students.
Fully participate in all required trainings, set-up days and orientation events.

Enrolled undergraduate GGC student taking at least six credit hours
Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA, and good academic and conduct standing
At least two semesters remaining at GGC after summer employment
Available to work throughout the entire summer
Strong communication, organization and customer service skills
Comfortable leading groups, working long active days and representing GGC with pride

Orientation leaders are employed from September through the following August. The role includes natural peaks and slower periods throughout the year.

The busiest season runs April through August, when multiple orientation sessions and preparation days take place. However, orientation leaders are still expected to participate in scheduled trainings, prep days and orientation events during the fall and spring semesters.

Specific schedules and expectations are shared months in advance to help orientation leaders plan accordingly.

Hiring Process

Ready? GO Apply!

Step 1: Stay Connected

Learn open application dates through the following channels:

Follow Grizzly Orientation on Instagram @ggc_grizzlyorientation.
Monitor campus digital screens.
Connect with New Student Connections at Career Services job fairs.
Attend an August information session.
Sign up to receive open application updates.

Step 2: Apply

August – September

Submit your application(s) for the follow opportunities through the GGC Careers Job Board.

Orientation leader: leads groups, facilitates sessions, engages new students and families
Orientation leader, marketing and office assistant: supports social media, content creation and office operations, assists with orientation events

Selected candidates will be invited to complete a virtual interview.

Step 3: Hiring and Onboarding

September

Monitor Claw Mail for official hiring notifications sent by Human Resources.
Complete all required onboarding tasks.
Watch for official “Welcome to the Team” confirmation from New Student Connections.

Step 4: Training and Preparation

October – December

Attend the mandatory retreat (October).
Participate in required weekly trainings, prep days and scheduled orientation events.
Look for additional scheduling details and work expectations shared with selected orientation leaders in September.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes an applicant stand out?

Strong orientation leader applicants demonstrate spirit, passion and commitment. They may not know everything about GGC – but they show a willingness to learn, step out of their comfort zone and grow as leaders.

The applicants who stand out are those who take initiative, communicate confidently, show genuine pride in the GGC community and are excited to help others succeed.

Can freshmen and transfer students apply?

Yes. Your representation matters.

We welcome both freshmen and transfer students at orientation, and your lived experience helps new students feel seen and supported. We will teach you everything you need to know about GGC.

Are international students encouraged to apply?

Absolutely. International student voices are important as GGC welcomes students from around the world.

Please note: orientation leaders must remain in Georgia during the summer peak season. This is a September through August commitment and is not a fall-only or spring-only position.

What is the real time commitment?

Orientation leaders are employed from September through August.

The busy period runs April through August, when most orientation sessions and prep days occur. During fall and spring, orientation leaders attend required weekly trainings, meetings and select events. Schedules are shared in advance to help you plan.

Can I take summer classes while serving as an orientation leader?

Yes. Many orientation leaders take summer courses while working.

However, orientation season is most active in the summer. You’ll need to carefully plan your course schedule to ensure you can balance priority academic responsibilities and orientation commitments.

Can I have another job while being an orientation leader?

Yes. Many orientation leaders balance another job or internship.

That said, orientation commitments – especially during peak season – must take priority. Strong time management and communication are essential.

I’m shy or introverted – should I still apply?

Yes. Some of the strongest orientation leaders started out shy.

This is a role about growth, not personality type. If you’re willing to challenge yourself, practice public speaking and support others, you can absolutely thrive.

Do I need a Georgia driver’s license?

A Georgia-issued driver’s license is not required, but is highly recommended.

Some orientation leaders assist with driving GGC golf carts during events, which requires a valid Georgia driver's license.

I don’t have a car or license – can I still apply?

Yes. A personal vehicle is not required.

However, you are responsible for securing reliable transportation to campus for early morning or extended orientation days.

What is the pay and perks?

Orientation leaders earn $15 per hour, plus receive meals and exclusive GGC swag during orientation events.

What are the working conditions like?

Orientation is fast-paced, high-energy and active.

Expect long days that include walking across campus, working outdoors in varying weather, setting up materials, lifting supplies and supporting logistics. It’s hands-on work – and incredibly rewarding.

What’s the difference between an orientation leader and an orientation leader marketing and office assistant?

Orientation leaders lead groups, facilitate sessions and engage with new students and families.

Orientation leader marketing and office assistants support office operations, social media, content creation and assist with orientation events.

Both roles serve the same mission but align with different strengths.

Is there a dress code?

Yes. During events, orientation leaders must wear official orientation polo shirts (provided) with black pants and comfortable shoes, such as tennis shoes.

Professional appearance and adherence to the dress code is required.

Do I have to be highly involved on campus to apply?

No. It is strongly encouraged but not mandatory.

We’re looking for students who are eager to grow and represent GGC with pride – not students who have done everything already.

Can I reapply if I wasn’t selected before?

Yes. We encourage returning applicants.

Growth, new experiences and leadership development can strengthen your application each year.