The Full Story
Practicum 2022
For my practicum, I took HESI318O, Applied Contextual Leadership; Orientation Leader. This class was mandatory before I could officially become an orientation advisor for UMD this coming summer. We met every Tuesday from 6-8:30pm and each class focused on different aspects of life in Maryland. For example we had lessons on commuters, transfer students, the transition from highschool to college, changing your major, etc. in order to understand the different groups of people we will be attending to in the summer and how best to help them with these common situations they might face. We also frequently did roleplay in class where we were presented with different scenarios like a parent angry about the order of the summer program, an underage student asking where the best bars are, or a student who seems uninterested in joining in on icebreaker activities, and we had to act as an OA in these situations and do what we think is best. The class also required us to make in-depth packets of information about university resources, locations/services of buildings, operations of sites like Testudo, and more so that we are equipped with essential knowledge for the summer. Additionally, we also got training on how to use gender inclusive language and how to use careful wording (using “supporters” instead of “parents,” and “students” instead of “kids.”)
How I've Grown
I learned the importance of giving a good interview. The application process consisted of two group interviews and one individual interview, so I had to push myself to stand out and be present in such a large group setting. I had to balance this with being genuine to who I am (not changing how I speak or changing my personality to what I think they want to see). It was slightly uncomfortable to market myself, but I came out more confident and more secure in my abilities and potential. I included the email inviting me to the 3rd round of interviews, because that was when I fully realized what I can achieve and to stop doubting my social skills- it really cemented to me that I can do what I set out to on my own.
How I found It
I noticed flyers throughout the school about applying to be Orientation staff which initially sparked my interest, but I also saw in the scholar's weekly email a link to apply and that gave more in-depth information about the program, which is what compelled me to apply. I would say to orient your practicum on something you already planned on doing, or something that you have been meaning to do like an internship, it makes it a bit easier stress wise to combine the practicum with an experience you had intended to already do. As for finding opportunities, use campus resources! Usually different colleges and scholars have projects going on, you would just need to reach out to the director of that college and scholars program to ask what opportunities there are. Also try to notice flyers and emails you get in your terpmail- I just saw on a dining hall flyer, an opportunity to volunteer at the terp farm which is great if you are an Environmental Science or Agriculture major for a practicum.
What I learned
I learned the importance of team building and community. The class mandated hanging out with fellow OAs and made the class very discussion and group activity based. We also had a retreat meant for us to bond with another. Since we have to work together to make a good orientation experience (in giving tours, and in doing tasks like greeting students and checking them in), I learned that it is critical to get to know the people you work with on a deeper level and try to make close friendships with them.
Since the job is very much one where you have to be organized with your time (early call time and a strict schedule for summer programs), I will be prepared for time deadlines and scheduling for my future career. Additionally, I can apply the process it took to prepare for this job in all other future jobs. I had to learn the ins and outs of my role, memorize a lot of information, shadow current OAs, and practice what I will do/say- this dedication can be applied in anything to make sure I am prepared and knowledgeable in what I endeavor to do.
Future Plans
Rest of my time at UMD:
I want to apply to be a RA my junior year, and being a mentor and advisor as an OA is a perfect way to train for being an RA who is also responsible for the well-being of students and who is expected to know campus resources to direct their students to. I also intend on securing an internship my senior year with a US governmental health organization that I could potentially work at after graduation.
Post-graduation and prospective career:
I would like to get my Masters with a focus on Urban Design and Environmental Science, since that is the sect of Public Health that interests me most. Climate change is a major global health issue, since the burden of its effects are placed on people in countries with a lower socio-economic standing which will worsen inequalities already present in the social system. Realistically, I envision myself working for a few years in the field for hands-on experience before I enter my post-grad (also in order to finance it), and after that I can narrow down the companies I work for with that focus on mind- potentially working for NGOs.