Experience Connection: Discover, Belong, and Thrive in New Student Programs

For those who enjoy fast paced, student-centered, high energy work, New Student Programs is a perfect fit. As an the graduate apprentice for New Student Programs, I am able to use my talents and interests to contribute to Orientation, Line Camp, Welcome Week, and Welcome Weekend. New Student Programs was a natural fit for me – I love working with students in transition, particularly those moving from the high school setting to college. Not to mention, my office is full of individuals who are passionate about the students they serve and students who are passionate about serving Baylor – we also have the most rockin’ Grad Pad in the SUB.

My day-to-day work varies depending on the season. My apprenticeship is a lot of fun, but also a lot of hard work. Here are just a few things you’ll get to look forward to:

• In the fall, I start the year by helping coordinate Welcome Week. I facilitate training, supervise student groups, and ultimately lend a hand wherever I am needed. As a staff, we have a great time with our student leaders coordinating the Big Event, Round Up, President’s Picnic, and various other Welcome Weekend events.
• I play a vital role in Baylor Line Camp, BaylorBound, and Welcome Week recruitment! This includes everything from planning and facilitating interviews, to selection and training of leaders.
• My busiest and most exciting season is the summer – this can be a little stressful with coursework and comprehensive exams, but completely worth it! New Student Programs wants to give you an experience that is tailored to you as an individual. For me, that meant facilitating the large-scale service project for Line Camp and developing programming for academic success sessions at Orientation. I was able to experience and contribute to a variety of different components of Orientation and Line Camp. This experience will likely look very different for you depending on your interests and strengths! 
• In the second year of your apprenticeship, you will run Welcome Weekend; this is the culminating experience of your apprenticeship. Welcome Weekend is shortened version of Welcome Week for spring freshman, transfers, and international students. You have complete autonomy over the programming, logistics, and leadership selection and training!
• Your semesters may be filled with various other projects as well, which might include compiling assessments, contributing to the Student Life newsletter, assisting with the student leadership class, or helping assist with various NSP events throughout the spring and fall semester.

New Student Programs will always keep you on your toes; however, you have a chance to work in an environment full of laughter, fun, and truly rewarding experiences. I work with some of the best students and staff on campus (though I must say I am a little bit biased!) and have had wonderful opportunities to have experiences that compliment what I’m learning in the classroom. Of course, in case you aren’t convinced, here’s a little snapshot of me in action:

Samantha Riley
Graduate Apprentice for New Student Programs
2^nd Year HESA Student
samantha_riley@baylor.edu