Orientation and PACE Leaders 2011

As new student orientation begins at Emory this week, and the freshmen move in, choose their classes, and learn how to use Blackboard and Learnlink, I want to take the time to recognize the 95 dedicated Orientation and PACE Leaders who have worked throughout the year to help ease the new students’ transition to Emory.
 
I spoke with Simran Kholsa, a senior and an orientation captain, who explained that the 8 orientation captains are selected in October and are responsible for creating a 6-session spring training program for the chosen orientation leaders. Furthermore, as senior Diana Chen explains, “as Captains, we meet with all divisions of the university–RES life, LGBT Life, the Deans, PACE, OSLS, Student Health–anyone who interacts with the incoming students.” All orientation leaders and captains return to campus about a week before move-in to prepare for the various orientation events like “Songfest,” the Coke toast, and an evening activity with Emory’s favorite hypnotist, Chuck Milligan.
 
Simran also shared that, for the first time, “every captain was a first year captain so we were able to completely revamp parts of the program and really evaluate what works and what doesn’t work when preparing upperclassmen to mentor freshmen.” Diana added, “I think that one of the most exciting changes this year is the partnership that the OLs are forming with the PACE leaders. Both groups work so closely with the incoming students, yet this year is the first year where we’re all working together. In previous years, there have been separate OL groups and PACE groups. However, this year, PACE and OLs will have the same group of freshmen. This change is really helps to create an environment that is most conducive to the needs of the freshmen and it encourages a more collaborative mentality between the student leaders on campus.”
 
Additionally, Simran said her biggest challenge as an OL and Captain is to be able to adapt to changes and be ready to “think on your feet.” Diana feels that the biggest challenge OLs face is to recognize that not all students are as outgoing or comfortable participating in discussions as others and the OLs must learn to reach out to each individual student.
 
Of course, one of the most highly anticipated event of orientation week is the “Not your High School Musical” in Glenn Chapel. Simran admits that although the script is usually the same from year to year, “during rehearsal we add our own jokes and pop culture references that keep it fun for everyone.” Furthermore, new topics like LGBT life on campus and sexual assault awareness were added to the skit.
 
And last but not least…The OL Captains assured me that this year’s Songfest will be one of the best! Many “cool” songs and creative choreography will be incorporated and apparently there are many surprises in store for us! Upperclassmen are welcome to watch Songfest in the gym at 8:30 PM on Thursday!