New Student Orientation

Orientation Volunteers

Did you love your New Student Orientation experience? Do you want to help make a positive impact on some of the newest members of our community? Then join the NSO team in welcoming the Class of 2029 and transfers in their first days as new Stanford students!

Orientation Volunteer (OV) Application

Overview

Student Orientation Volunteers (OVs) are a cherished tradition at Stanford that make our NSO vibrant, energetic, and memorable for the incoming class on their first days on The Farm! 

All volunteers must be undergraduate students in good academic standing and enrolled for the 2025-26 academic year.

Note: OVs cannot simultaneously participate in any programs, trainings, or jobs that occur in mid-September (Residence Student Leaders, SPOT Leaders, Sophomore College, Arts Intensive, Bing Honors College, etc.)

About the Position

  • Orientation Volunteers (OVs) play a critical role in welcoming new students by representing the university and assisting the Orientation Coordinators (OCs) in supporting our major, high-profile NSO events. OV responsibilities include moving new students into their residences, setting up tables and chairs for NSO events, directing traffic and assisting with seating at large venues, handing out class t-shirts, and general event support. OVs must be prepared to engage in a wide array of responsibilities (both front-line and behind-the-scenes roles) with enthusiasm, a great work ethic, and a positive attitude.
  • The commitment for OVs begins Sunday, September 14 and runs through the end of NSO, Sunday, September 21, 2025.

Perks

  • Early Arrival Housing and Dining - We couldn't do this without you! In recognition of your commitment to volunteer, NSO will provide Early Arrival Housing and Dining for OVs during the period before your Autumn Quarter housing contract and meal plan begins. In order to receive early arrival housing and dining benefits, OVs must commit to their roles for the full duration of NSO training, prep activities, and NSO itself.
    • OVs must have on-campus housing for Autumn Quarter 2025 in order to be granted early arrival into their housing assignment. If students do not have on-campus housing, but would still like to participate as OVs, they must make their own arrangements to be housed locally.
    • If you will not have a meal plan for Autumn, we will register you for meals through the end of NSO.
  • Free NSO swag!
  • Meet new frosh and transfers!
  • Sign up with friends to work on the same OV team!
  • Be a part of one of Stanford's most cherished, memorable traditions!

NSO can't happen without the work of a community, and you are deeply appreciated in your participation. 

Orientation Volunteer (OV) Application

Can't make the OV commitment but still want to help out at NSO? Join the NSO Welcome Team and help move students in at the residences on the morning of New Student Move-In: Tuesday, September 16, 2025!

Move-In Day Volunteer Application

Questions?

For questions about the volunteer roles, contact stanfordnso@stanford.edu.