RPI’s two orientation programs, SO and NRB, have been presented at many different conferences, including both regional and national NODA (National Orientation Directors Association) events, as well as the National Resource Center for the First-Year Experience and Students in Transition. Aside from gaining national exposure for their programming, a number of awards were received for the publications used, such as the video of the previous year’s activities that is shown to attendees.

From the NODA Regional 2004 Conference, the “Outstanding Non-Print Media or Emerging Technologies” award was given to RPI for the NRB 2003 video. At the NODA National 2004 conference, the “Outstanding Use of Theme” (SO 2004) and “Outstanding Welcome Week Publicity” (NRB 2004) awards were presented to RPI. At the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA) Regional 2004 conference, RPI received Second Place in “Theme Publicity” for SO 2004.

As for individual awards, Nate Bobeck ’05 received the 2004 “Student Leadership” award at the National Orientation Directors Association Regional Conference for his work with the Office of the First-Year Experience as an advisor and coordinator for Student Orientation. Predominately, the awards were given for publication and media through associations connected with orientation programs, although some awards were reserved for individual leadership. “We are thrilled to receive such recognition for our work,” said Annie Virkus, one of the assistant deans for FYE. “It is our hope that as we continue to improve on our programs and publications, we will continue to receive such accolades.”

While the Office of the First-Year Experience has received regional and national recognition for SO and NRB in previous years, last year was exceptionally rewarding. Student Orientation was run from the Dean of Students Office until April 2001, when the Office of the First-Year Experience was founded as part of The Rensselaer Plan and task force recommendations. All the orientation programs were revamped and NRB was born along with additional programs, such as the Tuesday Night Toolbox Success Series, created especially for freshman. “We are better able to serve the needs of students (both first-year and upper-class) year-round,” Virkus said.

She continued, “Additionally, we are able to offer programs to all students including community service opportunities, diversity programs…and services through the IPAC (Information and Personal Assistance Center) office.” Aside from serving the students on campus, FYE is home to parent and family programs, including Family Weekend and Communiversity.

The goals of SO and NRB are to “…aid new students in their transition, integrate them into the life of the Rensselaer community, and introduce these students to the broad opportunities available at Rensselaer,” Virkus stated. “As an office, we feel that these programs are successful. We consistently hear positive comments from students and parents alike on how much they enjoyed attending Orientation.”