The Ten Students And Family Members You Will Meet At Orientation

and how you can help them make the most of their Orientation experience!

1. The Overeager Student

Via google.com

This student is so excited to be a Nole and they want to soak up everything and take advantage of all opportunities. You’ll find them with their nose in their Its All Academic book looking through electives, asking which campus networking session they should go to, and just genuinely being interested in orientation. Kick back, relax and be glad you have this student in your group.

2. The "Too Cool for School" Student

Via google.com

This student will act uninterested in most things orientation but you know they secretly were feeling either very nervous, very excited, or a combination of both. These students may open up during small group, but for the most part they will keep to themselves. Consider making time for a one-on-one conversation to get some insight on how they are feeling throughout orientation. Don’t be offended if they don’t want to do your chant.

3. The Class Clown

Via google.com

Like most class clowns, these student love attention. They will volunteer for things like sign holding and Excellence at the University, and will be the first to break any awkward silences. These students help lighten the mood and are getting a lot out of orientation at the same time.

4. The Shy Student

Via tumblr.com

There will be at least one of these students in every group you have. Sometimes known as introverts, quiet kids, or simply soft spoken, these students may have more to say during a one-on-one than in a small group. Take the time to remember their name... they love that.

5. The Student Who Wants to be your BFF

Via google.com

"Soooo... are we gonna hang out in the Fall?" Don't be afraid to befriend your students, but just know that some may want to continue that friendship once classes start. These students are special and love you for the amazing person you are and help make walking to the dining halls easier. Just know the line between friendship and OLship.

6. The Emotional Mom

Via google.com

Have some tissues handy and a shoulder to cry on. These moms (and dads too) are experiencing many emotions during orientation and what they will expect from you is simple... to listen. Take the time to hear them brag about their student and assure them that their "baby" will be just fine.

7. The Unimpressed Dad

Via google.com

You'll get the vibe right away that this dad seems less than impressed with either you, the orientation program, or your school altogether. Don't give up easily though! By your last small group you may have a solid hand shake and "thank you" in store for you. It may have all been a test because they are having just as much trouble letting go as their maternal counterparts... or they're just a jerk (which is fine too).

8. The Flirty Parent

Via google.com

This mom, dad, or even grandparent definitely enjoys you as their Orientation Leader, but be sure their compliments remain appropriate and that their questions are being answered. Have fun with these family members because they will make your day with telling you that they wish you went to college during the same time that they did or with a free Starbucks coffee. Regardless, they are harmless and just want an enjoyable orientation experience!

9. The Alumni

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These family members are so excited to be returning to their alma mater and may refer back to their college experience many times throughout Orientation (you know this will be you in about 30 years). Bond with them over school spirit and give them resources to stay connected (family connection forms anyone?).

10. The Cool Parents

Via google.com

The parents you wish you had. The two who you hope to sit with at lunch and dinner, and maybe even family breakfast if you're lucky. With their Starbucks in hand, they are ready to take on Orientation with confidence and genuine interest in the sessions. You probably will not have any issues with these parents so enjoy your two-person fan club while it lasts!