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Become an Orientation Leader

As a Golden Bear Orientation Leader, you become part of a team that works collaboratively to welcome and orient new students to the UC Berkeley community. Using your own experiences and perspectives, you will help guide incoming students through a multi-day program in August, helping them explore academic life, campus involvement, and everything that UC Berkeley has to offer. This is a unique volunteer opportunity to:

  • meet and mentor a diverse, dynamic student group
  • develop leadership skills
  • be a positive influence while having fun

A GBO group happily conversing

How to Join

The GBO Leader Application will close March 22, 2024. Fill out our application now!

Apply Now

Benefits for You

There are so many benefits to becoming a GBO Leader. Here are just a few:

  • Leadership and professional development
  • Building your skills as a mentor
  • Extending your “Berkeley family” and learning more about campus resources
  • Creating memories with the GBO community
  • Exploring the Bay Area with new students
  • Attending the Chancellor’s Reception
  • Getting UC Berkeley gear

Two Orientation Leaders holding a Golden Guidepost depicting a fake Cal 1 Card belonging to Ice Spice

 

Important Dates

In-person activities and expectations of all GBO Leaders:

  • 1:1 Supervisor Check-In: April 2024
  • OL Spring Training: April 27, 2024 
  • 2:1 Supervisor Pair Check-In: June 2024 – July 2024
  • August Intensive Training: August 17-19, 2024 (full days)
  • Golden Bear Orientation: August 21-26, 2024 (full days)

Role Description

  • Serve as a role model for new students.
  • Participate in all required events, in-person for GBO 2024, including meetings, Orientation Leader training(s), and GBO programs.
  • Facilitate activities and conversations related to Bear Foundations (program on diversity & inclusion), Bear Pact (program on sexual violence and mental health), and additional small group discussions.
  • Work collaboratively with an OL pair to orient and create a positive experience for new students. OLs will be allowed to have the opportunity to choose their pair via a mutual selection process.
  • Create an inclusive and welcoming community for all new students.
  • Promote full participation for new students in GBO.
  • Guide new students to various campus locations and program points throughout GBO.
  • Answer fundamental questions about UC Berkeley.
  • Be prompt, prepared, and eager to learn.
  • Be able to work well with a diverse group of people and work styles, and to work both independently and as part of a team.
  • Be willing to grow both personally and professionally.