The Student Orientation Staff is dedicated to offering students an opportunity to give back to the University by assisting incoming students with their transition into college.  In doing so, members develop and strengthen personal leadership skills.

SOS is a place where "students become leaders..." guiding new students in making a successful transition to college by promoting school spirit, campus involvement and academic excellence.

SOS MEMBERS…

·         Are volunteers!

·         Take a class in the spring semester called “Orientation Leadership” to develop personal leadership skills and a greater understanding of the Orientation program.

·         Conduct Orientation sessions on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in the summer.

·         Participate in other events that further the mission of the University.

OUR MISSION:
The mission of the Office of Orientation, in support of the mission of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, is to aid new students in their preparation to become contributing members of the campus community, to provide select current students with leadership opportunities, and to enhance developmental opportunities and student staff.

The Office of Orientation will inform new students of our University's academic expectations, campus services, and unique history. We will assist students in their transition to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette by creating an environment that welcomes and appreciates a diverse student body and promotes opportunities to become familiar with the campus culture.

The Office of Orientation will facilitate unique leadership and personal development opportunities by expanding critical thinking and interpersonal competencies of select current students through the Student Orientation Staff. S.O.S. members will serve as a source of knowledge and leadership to new students as well as peers in the University community. S.O.S. members will understand the overall value of higher education and the Office of Orientation's important role in realizing our University's mission.

The Office of Orientation will facilitate professional development opportunities for the professional and student staff. These staff members will be provided with the opportunity to work in a unique environment which supports academic and personal aspirations. Professional staff members will serve as logistical coordinators and liaisons to campus offices; facilitate leadership and personal development opportunities afforded to the Student Orientation Staff; and ensure the overall success of new students' transition to our University.

The mission of the Office of Orientation will be accomplished through collaborative relationships with and continued support from faculty and staff members, the administration, current University students and student organizations, and community supporters; a devoted Student Orientation Staff and professional staff; a commitment to diversity and the increasingly diverse student body of our University; and continuing education for professional and student staff and the Student Orientation Staff through national and regional conferences and workshops.