Apply to SOUL

Student Orientation Undergraduate Leaders (SOUL) are dedicated to making all incoming first-year and transfer students feel welcomed as they transition into life at Appalachian State University.

SOULs are passionate about meeting students' needs, whether that be building a class schedule, helping navigate resources on campus, or making connections to peers, faculty, and staff.

SOUL Description

Student Orientation Undergraduate Leaders (SOUL) support incoming New Mountaineers during their  Orientation experience. 

Position Announcement:  The Department of New Mountaineer and Family Engagement (NMFE) is seeking applications for Student Orientation Undergraduate Leaders (SOUL) for the 2024 academic year. The NMFE Team aids in transitioning all new students and family members into the Mountaineer Community by fostering a sense of belonging and purpose through intentional, dynamic, student and family-centered experiences. 

Position Title:  Student Orientation Undergraduate Leader (SOUL) within the Department of New Mountaineer & Family Engagement at Appalachian State University. 

Duties and Responsibilities 
Student Orientation Undergraduate Leaders will: 

  • Facilitate engaging and well-organized small group meetings and activities for New Mountaineers to build community and foster a sense of belonging. 

  • Share knowledge about App State’s traditions, campus resources, and expectations. When appropriate, refer students or families to additional resources and campus departments.

  • Provide positive customer service to all students and families. 

  • Help students and families acclimate to the physical campus by leading campus tours, providing directions, and accompanying them to activities throughout the Orientation experience. 

  • Serve as a role model and resource to students while representing App State. 

  • Provide assistance to faculty and staff who present or advise during the Orientation Experience.

  • Other duties as assigned by the New Mountaineer and Family Engagement team relating to New Mountaineer & Family Orientation.   


Position Requirements

  • Be enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student in Spring.

  • Have a cumulative GPA of 2.80 or higher from the current semester. 

  • Be in good academic and judicial standing with the university.

  • Active engagement in all spring training, retreats, and team-building activities. Or proper notification and approval from the NMFE Team. 

  • Show the potential for development in the following skillsets and qualities: excitement to learn and grow as a student leader, ability to serve as a positive role model for incoming Mountaineers and families, flexibility, problem-solving skills, commitment to identity development and appreciation of diverse perspectives, effective communication, and ability to work effectively and positively on a team. 

 

Desired Learning Outcomes  

The proffered learning objectives and experiential outcomes below will outline anticipated growth and development throughout your SOUL experience. Students interested in being a SOUL should actively engage in training, workshops, team-building activities, and more to achieve these desired learning objectives:

  • Apply knowledge of campus resources to support New Mountaineers and families during their transition to Appalachian State University. 

  • Communicate to a broad range of constituencies using a variety of delivery techniques and mediums. 

  • Utilize personal leadership strengths and facilitation tools to promote and encourage active engagement during Orientation sessions.

  • Management of multiple tasks and duties throughout Orientation sessions. 

 

Compensation

Tangible benefits or compensation for this position include: 

  • Competitive compensation with a starting hourly rate of $11.00/per hour. With anticipated 30-40 hour weeks during Orientation sessions (mid-May through mid-July, additional August & January Orientation paid hours vary based on availability). 

  • Summer Membership to University Recreation Facilities. 

  • On-campus housing accommodation is provided during summer employment (mid-May through mid-July).

  • On-campus parking pass provided during summer employment (mid-May through mid-July). 

  • Lunch and Snacks are provided during Orientation sessions. Additional meals will likely be provided throughout summer employment. 

  • Exclusive SOUL Uniform will be provided. 


Intangible benefits or perks of this position include: 

  • Gain both leadership and professional development experience in public speaking, group facilitation, time management, and cultural competency. 

  • Increase familiarity and knowledge of App State’s traditions, history, and resources. Share wisdom, knowledge, and valuable first-hand perspective with incoming Mountaineers and their families. 

  • Meet and work alongside App State administrators, faculty, and staff. 

  • Be an available member of a supportive team while having an unforgettable summer experience in the High Country.

Application Process

Applying to be a SOUL is a four-stage process.

Step One: Application

Step Two: Submit References

Identify two references and ask them to complete the Online Reference Form.

References can be from professors, instructors, supervisors, club officers, advisors, etc. References should be individuals who can comment on your leadership skills, communication skills and other qualifications matching the SOUL description.

References are due by the application deadlines:

  • New SOULs -- Friday, October 13, 2023
  • Returning SOULs are not required to submit References. 

Step Three: Interviews

Once all applications are received, selected applicants will be notified to schedule individual and group interviews.

All interviews will be in-person and take place from October 23 through November 17th, 2023. Students not selected to interview will receive notification via email. Group interviews will take place on Wednesday, October 25 & Tuesday, November 14th

After all interviews are completed, a team of SOULs will be selected and notified just after the last day of classes for the fall semester. Students not selected will receive notification via email.

Step Four: Be a SOUL!

Selected SOULs are required to attend the following mandatory events:

  • 2024 SOULcial - Monday, December 4 TBD 
  • Spring Semester Training 
    Every Wednesday evening from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
     (beginning January 24, 2023)
  • Week-long pre-orientation training and Summer Orientation sessions
    ~ Mid May - Mid July 2024
  • August Orientation sessions
    ~August 6, 2024
  • January 2025 Orientation sessions
    TBD