Orientation at Brandeis University is far more than an introduction for new students. It is a lively, community-building experience led by passionate current students who are committed to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for first-year and transfer students.
The journey for orientation leaders begins with four days of training, during which they engage in a range of sessions, including Prevention, Advocacy, & Resource Center (PARC) training, Office of Equal Opportunity (OEO) training and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) sessions. A key component of the training is also identifying personal strengths and learning how to contribute effectively within a team. Orientation leaders are paired with another leader based on these strengths, promoting teamwork and collaboration. Once training is complete, leaders guide new students through various events and help them navigate their surroundings.
For many leaders, the motivation to join stems from personal experiences and the desire to make a difference. Ella Majeski (’26) explains, “I was motivated to become an orientation leader after hearing from my coworkers about how uplifting, energetic and open-minded the environment is. My sophomore year was met with a myriad of struggles, and I found myself feeling really unmotivated with the idea of returning to Brandeis for my junior year. I figured that doing orientation would be the perfect opportunity for a positive transition into my third year.”
Having previously worked as a camp counselor in a comparable role, Dani Kohorn (’25) also faced personal challenges and uncertainties that shaped her decision to become an orientation leader. Kohorn describes, “I came into college not wanting to run to be a leader in any club or role because I’m scared of it. This helped me learn that I too can be a leader on campus, even if it’s in a smaller way like this.”
Being an orientation leader comes with numerous rewards. Kohorn highlights the value of being a resource for new students while feeling part of a close-knit community on campus. She reflects, “A big part of it is just to make sure everybody has access to all those different resources and feels supported, and that we’re there to answer questions as needed.” Majeski also emphasizes the connections made through the experience, saying, “The most rewarding part was creating new friendships with people. I met so many Brandeis students from across disciplines that I would never have been able to connect with without orientation, including my co-leader.”
Both Kohorn and Majeski speak to the fun and memorable moments that come with the role. Kohorn describes the joy of participating in skit competitions and performing choreographed dances, known as “Jazzercise,” which are designed to create a relaxed atmosphere for incoming students. “The goal is for us to look a little silly so they don’t feel so silly or like the attention is all on them,” she explains. Majeski adds, “We have a saying that the orientation events are really for the orientation leaders because of how fun and silly they are. I loved being able to goof with all of the orientation leaders, and perform for the new students. It definitely got me out of my comfort zone.”
For both of them, the orientation leader experience has evidently been transformative. Kohorn has found her confidence as a leader, discovering that she could take on such roles despite initial hesitations. Majeski, who sought a fresh start after a challenging sophomore year, found orientation to be the perfect way to re-engage with campus life and make meaningful connections with other students.
When it comes to offering advice to future orientation leaders, they find that the key is to be willing to get out of your comfort zone. As Majeski puts it, “It’s all about having fun, being silly and creating a welcoming environment for the new students.” Kohorn adds, “Come at it with an open mind and realize that everyone is there to have a good time.”
