:: POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY :: Student Leadership

Since its inception, NYU-Poly has recognized the significant learning that takes place outside the formal classroom. In an effort to augment the knowledge gained in class sessions, the ability to communicate well, to develop, promote, implement, and evaluate ideas and activities, and to initiate desirable change are necessities for each educated person. NYU-Poly graduates are expected to function effectively in teams, both as leaders and as members.

The out-of-the-classroom experience can and does play a crucial part in students’ development. There are many facets of education and development that come together and crystallize within the co-curriculum helping students become competent mature individuals, and fully responsible citizens. This area deserves critical attention as an area where students are invited and challenged to live out what they are leaning in the classroom and take that learning even further.

The research of leading scholars indicates that participation in these activities supports the retention and graduation rates of the students involved. The Office of Student Development encourages you to seek out experiences that will challenge and round out your classroom learning, complementing your education.

Peer Counselors are upper level students who assist first-year students in making the transition from high school to college. They also assist in facilitating the SL1010 First-Year Seminar course. The program includes extensive leadership training during summer months with in-service training throughout the academic year. The Peer Counselor interview and selection process occurs early each Spring semester for the following academic year.

Each Fall semester 10-12 students are added to the program and are trained at a national conference to promote cultural and ethnic harmony and awareness on campus.

Polytechnic is concerned with the total development of students. NYU-Poly students will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of leadership opportunities. These include Peer Counselors, New Student Orientation Leaders, Diversity Diplomats, University Ambassadors, Resident Advisors, tutors, and leaders of clubs and organizations.

The student leaders are instrumental in enhancing the quality if campus life through co-curricular activities such as institutional governance, clubs or organizations or special committees, recreational or cultural endeavors and the planning and production of programs of entertainment and enlightenment.

Involvement in these activities will enhance a student’s experience and provide them with the necessary skills to succeed beyond their NYU-Poly years. Workshops and training sessions will provide the students with the tools to be successful leaders and members of the community. These workshops will stress development in many areas including, social, physical, academic, career, emotional and self awareness.

For more information visit the Office of Student Development in the Student Leadership Center in Jacobs 158.

Orientation programs are held on campus at the beginning of the Fall and Spring semesters for first-year and transfer undergraduate students, as well graduate and undergraduate international students.

Orientation Leaders will provide incoming students and their family members with a personal introduction to Polytechnic Institute of NYU. With enthusiasm and pride in Poly, they will highlight the spirit and tradition, academic expectations, campus life, and promote resources available for student success. Orientation Leaders encourage new students and their families to ask questions, participate in discussion, and engage in building relationships with other students, faculty, and staff. As an Orientation Leader, you represent the best of NYU-Poly and have the opportunity to demonstrate what being a member of the NYU-Poly learning community is all about.

General Responsibilities include:

Orientation Leaders are expected to possess and demonstrate enthusiasm, energy, reliability, honesty, teamwork, and punctuality.
Orientation Leaders are responsible for welcoming new students and their families into the community and assisting them throughout their complete Orientation & first semester experience.
Orientation Leaders will facilitate small groups throughout the program consisting of students or their guests to address academic and community expectations, student life issues, and answer participant questions.
Orientation Leaders will assist with program components including check-in, campus tours, facilitating student activities, campus life presentations, and evening activities.
Orientation Leaders will continue to serve as a welcoming face and resource for students during welcome activities and throughout the fall semester.