What are the responsibilities and job description for the Orientation Assistant Summer 2026 position at State University of New York, Cortland?
/Duties
Orientation assistants (OAs) help new students adjust to life at SUNY Cortland. OAs are knowledgeable about the campus, act as role models, are leaders and serve as representatives of SUNY Cortland. Specific duties include:
- Participate in OA training on college policies, education requirements and services, team building and leadership development
- Assist in the preparation of Orientation activities and materials
- Facilitate large and small group discussions on college life, academics and degree requirements for graduation
- Participate in Cortland Nites for students staying in the residence halls during overnight sessions
- Help new students and family members feel comfortable by being responsive to and aware of their needs and concerns
- Stay in the Orientation residence halls
- Assist new students with the registration and scheduling process
- Build working relationships with other OAs, faculty, staff and administrators on campus
- Maintain a positive attitude toward SUNY Cortland
Days/Hours Needed
June 11 – July 24, 2026 (including some weekends and a weekend in Raquette Lake) and a portion of the August Orientation/Welcome Week (Aug. 20-Aug. 28). The position requires long days and evenings.
Orientation sessions will consist of one-day in-person and two-day (overnight) in-person sessions. Virtual sessions are also offered for both first-year and transfer students.
Please note that due to the nature of this position, you cannot enroll in summer session courses or have additional employment from June 11 – July 24, 2026.
Orientation sessions will consist of one-day in-person and two-day (overnight) in-person sessions. Virtual sessions are also offered for both first-year and transfer students.
Please note that due to the nature of this position, you cannot enroll in summer session courses or have additional employment from June 11 – July 24, 2026.
Campus Location/Bldg.
You will have a room in one of the residence halls on campus. Training may be conducted in different buildings across campus. The majority of orientation sessions will be in person. OAs must stay in their assigned residence hall while programs are in session. Meals are included during training and orientation sessions.
Required Qualifications
- Must be a SUNY Cortland undergraduate student who will be attending Cortland in Fall 2026
- In good academic standing (at least a 2.0 GPA)
- In good standing with Student Conduct (no current sanctions)
- Ability to maintain a positive and flexible attitude
- Desire to work with students, faculty, and staff
Preferred Qualifications
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5
- Evidence of academic excellence and co-curricular involvement
Physical Demands
Special Conditions for Eligibility
Contact Name(s) & Email(s)
Gregory Diller
gregory.diller@cortland.edu
gregory.diller@cortland.edu
Salary Grade
C-Other (Specify Below)
Salary
$3,660 stipend paid over two installments (and will reflect the deduction of appropriate taxes), room during orientation, and OAs will receive meals during training and while the Orientation programs are in session
Salary : $3,660