The Office of Orientation and Transition provides a variety of opportunities for current students to serve JMU by assisting first-year and transfer students in their transition to campus. Peer connection is a powerful means to show an authentic and dynamic view of the JMU community. Student staff contributions give life to our programs and leave impressions on incoming students, guests and one another that last a lifetime.

As a member of the Orientation and Transition team, you will learn, develop and grow in unexpected ways. You will experience personal growth, learn more about JMU academic, business, and student life resources, enhance relationships with faculty and staff, facilitate peer discussions, and create memorable experiences. Through Orientation, your opportunities are endless. The choice is yours – apply for one of the many positions available on the O-Team.

Orientation Peer Adviser (OPA)

The Office of Orientation and Transition is seeking students to serve as Orientation Peer Advisers (OPAs) for the 2024-2025 O-Team! OPAs play a crucial role in guiding new JMU students and supporters during Orientation & Weeks of Welcome. They facilitate orientation programming, share their student experience, provide peer mentorship, and connect students with essential campus resources. If you’re passionate about JMU and want to make a difference, consider applying to be an OPA and help welcome new Dukes and their supporters! 

Apply Here!

Compensation includes: 

  • $4400 stipend (before taxes.) 
  • Housing for Summer Training and Summer Orientation (Dates subject to change but tentatively 6/2/25-7/24/25 
  • Meals Provided during Summer & Fall Training, Summer Orientation, and Weeks of Welcome 

More details are included in the application 

When are applications due? 

Applications are due by 11:55 PM on October 30 

How does the selection process work? 

Step 1: Complete your application before the deadline! 

Step 2: The interview process will take place in two stages- a group interview and an individual interview. After all applications are reviewed following the October 30 deadline candidates will be notified via email if they are selected to participate in a group interview.  

  • Group Interview: There will be multiple group interview dates to accommodate student schedules. Group interview dates are tentative but will take place the first week of November. 
  • Individual Interview: Once group interviews have been completed candidates will be notified if they have been selected to attend an individual interview. Following individual interviews selected candidates will be notified if they have been selected for the role or not. 
First yeaR Orientation Guide
Applications for First yeaR Orientation Guide will open again in February 2025.

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