About This Role
As a UTS Peer Network Orientation Volunteer during Spring 2025 Orientation, I supported new students during their critical first days at university, helping them navigate campus life and build connections with their peers.
Activity Breakdown
Training Day 1 – 2 July 2025
What I Did: I attended the first Peer Network training session where we were introduced to the role we'd play during Spring Orientation. The session covered important UTS services and how to guide new students through them. We also learned key leadership and communication skills to help us interact with diverse student backgrounds. A segment on campus safety and evacuation protocols gave me more confidence in handling real-life situations. More than anything, it was an exciting start—I met so many new people, all passionate about creating a welcoming space for students.
What I Learned: I learnt how even simple things like giving directions with a smile or answering a small query patiently can completely change someone's first-day experience. I became more mindful of how to present information clearly and positively. If I had to do anything differently, I'd probably prepare a few welcome phrases in different languages just to connect better with international students from non-English backgrounds.
Training Day 2 – 9 July 2025
What I Did: The second training day was more interactive—we got to meet experienced Peer Network volunteers and hear about their past experiences. It helped me understand the practical side of things and how to make new students feel more comfortable and included. We also participated in some fun social activities that we could use during O'Week to break the ice and encourage conversations among students. It really felt like a community coming together to build something meaningful.
What I Learned: I learnt that sometimes the most impactful ideas are the simplest ones—like playing a quick game or sharing a personal story. Talking to the seniors also reminded me that every person brings their own unique energy to this role. If I could do something differently, I'd probably take notes on the activities they found most successful so I could try adapting them to suit different groups of students more confidently.
Orientation Day 1 – 21 July 2025
What I Did: On the first day of volunteering for Orientation Week, I was involved in a variety of tasks—from leading campus tours and mobbing in different buildings, to assisting at the coffee cart and welcoming new students. I helped direct them to their respective registration rooms or support areas and made sure they felt comfortable navigating the campus. It was a full-day shift, and I genuinely enjoyed being part of that initial welcome experience for so many new faces.
What I Learned: I learnt that even the smallest interactions—a smile, a friendly greeting, or walking someone to a room—can ease someone's nerves on their first day. It reminded me how important it is to be approachable, calm, and confident when others may be feeling lost or overwhelmed. If I were to do anything differently, I'd try to remember more student FAQs ahead of time so I could answer quicker without needing to ask someone else.
Orientation Day 2 – 24 July 2025
What I Did: I continued with leading campus tours and mobbing in different buildings, assisting at the coffee cart, and welcoming new students. I helped direct them to their respective registration rooms or support areas and made sure they felt comfortable navigating the campus. It was another full-day shift supporting the Spring 2025 cohort.
What I Learned: I reinforced my understanding that small interactions can make a big difference. Being approachable, calm, and confident helps when others are feeling lost or overwhelmed. I felt proud to be part of creating such a warm start to their UTS journey.
Orientation Day 3 – 25 July 2025
What I Did: The final day of Orientation Week—I was involved in a variety of tasks from leading campus tours and mobbing in different buildings, to assisting at the coffee cart and welcoming new students. I helped direct them to their respective registration rooms or support areas and made sure they felt comfortable navigating the campus.
What I Learned: By the end of Day 3, I had developed a rhythm and felt more confident answering questions on the spot. I'd recommend preparing more student FAQs ahead of time for quicker responses. Overall, I felt proud to be part of creating such a warm start to their UTS journey.
Skills Developed
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Interpersonal communication
- Leadership capabilities
- Event coordination
- Public speaking
- Cross-cultural communication
Impact
- 2000+ incoming students supported during Spring 2025 Orientation
- 36.5 hours of volunteering service contributed
- Received formal recognition from UTS Orientation & Transition team
Recognition
🏆 UTS Peer Network – Volunteer Recognition Certificate
Recognised for contribution to the Peer Network Program during Spring 2025.
Program Duration: 2 July – 25 July 2025 (Spring 2025 Orientation)
