Michael Gillette applied to be an On Iowa! Leader out of respect for the experienced students who’d helped him when he needed it.

“I couldn’t have survived without mentors, and I wanted to give something back,” says the senior finance major from Ottawa, Ill. “Today I still get contacts from students in my On Iowa! groups.”

On Iowa! staff are looking for students like Gillette who want to share their experiences and welcome new students to campus. Online applications for the positions are due Monday Feb. 25.

“We’re reaching out to students directly, but also looking for recommendations from faculty and staff,” says Nicole Sexton, assistant director for the Office of Retention who coordinates recruitment for the program. “We’re seeking students who’ll be positive and energetic representatives for the university.”

On Iowa! is a five-day welcome and orientation event for first-year students. Launched in 2011 as part of the university’s focus on undergraduate student success, the program connects classmates, teaches Hawkeye traditions, introduces college-level academics, and provides chances to explore campus life.

On Iowa! leaders play an essential role. Each leader mentors about 25 new students, facilitating small-group activities and serving as a guide for the On Iowa! program. Leaders also assist with residence hall move-in.

Leaders receive perks including early registration for the spring 2014 semester, $100 in Hawkeye Dollars for use at campus food-service locations, and early residence hall move-in at no charge. They also get a unique chance to build practical skills.

“This experience really built me as a leader,” says Gillette, who worked with On Iowa! in 2011 and 2012. “It pushes you to develop your communication and organizational skills, and to get comfortable leading a group. Talking with potential employers, I’ve spoken about my On Iowa! work again and again.”

Leaders will attend four-hour team meetings April 7 and April 21. The On Iowa! program schedule is still being set, but leaders must be available and prepared to work any time between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. Aug. 19-25.

Eligible students must be enrolled full-time for the fall 2013 semester, have at least a 2.33 GPA, and demonstrate excellent communication skills. Students with other pre-semester commitments—study abroad, Marching Band, Spirit Squad, or positions with overlapping programs—are not eligible.

Find the full list of qualifications, application information, and more on the On Iowa! website.