Towson
Orientation Leader Application

I was an Orientation Leader for Towson in Fall 2004. This was my application:

Why are you interested in being an Orientation Leader and what personal qualities do you have which will contribute to your ability to work as an Orientation Leader?

I am interested in being an Orientation Leader for the reasons listed in the application's cover letter. "For many students new to Towson the Orientation Leader is their first personal contact…The experience a student has in the first semester has a direct impact upon future success…Your role as OL will be crucial to new student success."

When I pulled up outside Tower A in August, I told my mother there was 30 percent chance I would be home in 10 days, unable to adapt and fit in at college. 10 days later, I told her that was 100 percent wrong. My experience in the first days, as shaped by my orientation leader, adviser, resident assistant, and other campus leaders, developed the foundation for a successful tenure at Towson.

I would serve as an excellent orientation leader because I am knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and motivated. I am knowledgeable about the university - I am the type of student who reads the student handbook cover to cover. Other freshmen students constantly ask how I already know so much about Towson. I strive to be well-informed about my surroundings. I am enthusiastic about the university, as well - I believe that the school is a "perfect fit" for a diverse mix of students. And I am motivated to succeed in the position. I realize the importance of transitions. I want to help make students feel welcome and comfortable at Towson.

My own strengths and qualities go hand-in-hand with the traits listed above. Above all, I am an ambitious and passionate person. I strive to work hard and make an impact - I don't hesitate when it comes to my ambition. I am not half-hearted - I commit to roles and responsibilities I am passionate about, and give it my all.

What single piece of advice would you give to an entering student at TU and why?

My single piece of advice for every new Towson student is simple: seize the opportunities that come your way. Join organizations, play sports, attend events, participate on campus, utilize resources - you name it, it's available.

Students who are active on campus - regardless of whether it is singing in the gospel choir, producing a television show, pledging a Greek organization, or holding a fundraiser - appreciate the university to a greater degree than students who are not. They recognize more faces and become more knowledgeable about campus.

Every involved student I have met enjoys their experience at Towson - and that applies to residents, commuters, and transfers. Many of the students who spend all their time within the confines of their dorm room do not. The two students I know who are considering transferring? They have never attended a club meeting, or a campus event, or a pick-up soccer game on Newell field.

Check out a football game at Unitas Stadium, or a swimming meet at Burdick. Attend a Campus Activities Board or University Residence Government event. Listen to a concert or performance at the Center for the Arts.

Utilize the resources the university provides, as well. Advisers, professors, resident assistants, and counselors are there to help! Entire offices exist solely to support students and ensure their success.

Look beyond campus, too. Towson is our backyard, and Baltimore is a bus stop away. Take advantage of it!

Carpe diem. Seize the day. Seize the opportunities that abound each and every day. They enhance students' experiences and help shape their future at Towson.