The OWLs have wise tips for students in Orientation Week
OWLs (Orientation Week Leaders) are friendly, knowledgeable Griffith students who volunteer during Orientation Week (O-Week) to help new students settle into university life. Whether someone is looking for directions, answers or tips for making the most of their Griffith experience, our OWLs are here to help.
What do OWLs do?
As an OWL, you'll play a key role in helping new students feel connected and confident as they begin their Griffith journey. You may:
- welcome and assist students at information desks.
- provide directions and answer questions across campus.
- share your experiences and practical tips for success at Griffith.
- facilitate activities that help students make connections and build friendships.
- support online and on-campus Orientation events.
- create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for all new students.
Want to know what it's really like to be an OWL?
Listen to our volunteers share how Orientation Week helped them grow their confidence, gain new skills, and build lasting connections.
I met a student today who was registering with Student Disability and Accessibility. The student said he was only here because an OWL told him about our service and was incredibly supportive and engaging, making the student feel safe and confident to reach out. Prior to this the student did not know about our service and did not think they were eligible for any support. Thank you to the OWL teams who make students feel welcome, it is such an important thing you do!
Senior Disability Advisor
Become an OWL
Joining the OWL team is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference while developing valuable personal and professional skills.
We're looking for students who are:
- currently enrolled at Griffith and have completed at least one trimester of study
- enthusiastic about sharing their Griffith experience
- friendly, approachable, and willing to help others
- excellent communicators
- available to participate during Orientation Week.
Orientation Week
Monday 26 October to Friday 30 October 2026
Monday 22 February to 26 February 2027
Monday 5 July to 9 July 2027
Monday 25 October to 29 October 2027
What's in it for you?
As an OWL, you'll gain:
- new friendships and connections with students from other study areas
- leadership, communication, teamwork, and organisational skills
- valuable volunteer experience to enhance your resume
- a certificate of participation
- access to opportunities to become involved in other student engagement and success initiatives
- the satisfaction of helping new students thrive from day one.
Ready to make a difference?
Collectively, our OWLs contributed more than 320 hours supporting the Griffith University Info Hub throughout the Trimester 2 2026 Orientation period, assisting 2,997 students across all campuses. Our OWLs rated their experience 4.86 out of 5 stars!
Join us and become part of the OWL family! Together, we'll create a welcoming and supportive community for Griffith's new students.
“Nobody tells you that being an OWL…
Hear from our Orientation Week Leaders.
Yudhajit Gangopadhyay
…means becoming the guide you wish you'd had—sharing the little things nobody explains, so new students feel less lost."
Bree-Anna Pirie
…is like being in your own little club, every OWL is so kind and inclusive that every action and moment makes us feel like a great team.”
Hamza Mubarak
…can open the door to developing your leadership skills, building teamwork, and creating meaningful connections with others.”