First impressions really are everything for Jansen Rouillard.
As director of New Student Orientation, he helps ensure that the University of Georgia’s newest students have all the information they need to start their academic journey.
“The beautiful thing about the University of Georgia is that there are opportunities everywhere you look,” Rouillard said. “It’s very important that we have a structure and network of support in place to guide those initial steps. It’s a way to make sure everyone can have the great experience they aspire to at UGA.”
Rouillard got a taste for working in higher education during his own time in college. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and communication and religious studies from Rockhurst University while participating in Greek life and student government and competing as a student-athlete. He then earned a master’s degree in educational leadership studies from Oklahoma State University, where he also worked with a scholarship program focused on student leadership.
An internship during his master’s program brought Rouillard to UGA in 2021. He stayed in Athens for three months and loved not only the area but also the work. He served in similar roles at other institutions and came back to UGA as assistant director of New Student Orientation in 2023. He’s been in his current role since December 2024.
Designed for incoming first-year and transfer students, New Student Orientation provides essential information, resources and connections for them to succeed academically and socially. These programs foster a sense of belonging and prepare both students and families to navigate the collegiate journey with confidence.
“Ultimately, what we come back to is how are we preparing students to be engaged at UGA,” Rouillard said. “For the majority of students, we are the tone setters, the culture setters and the primary source of information and connection during their first steps as new Bulldogs.”
Rouillard’s responsibilities include the planning, development and implementation of orientation programming. Not only does he oversee the execution of summer and spring orientation activities, but he also oversees New Student Orientation staff, graduate assistants, interns and Orientation Leaders.
The goal is to offer incoming students an authentic experience so that they know what to expect when classes begin.
“Coming from a high school experience, it can be a night and day difference, in terms of opportunities,” Rouillard said. “In high school, it’s likely that our students have someone who helps to bring opportunities to their attention. But in college, it’s an entirely autonomous and independent experience. It’s up to you to tell your story and make the choices that feel right to you.”
Those orientation sessions look a little different each year. For example, based on data gathered from students about their experiences, Rouillard’s team moved to two-day sessions for all incoming students, allowing them to go more in depth with the content and creating a more dynamic experience. The session content also changes as needed. This year, incoming students will hear more about the use of artificial intelligence at UGA, as well as active learning initiatives.
There is a rhythm to orientation work, according to Rouillard. Orientation sessions happen from May through August. From September through December, his team regroups and starts planning for the next fall. In January through April, they’re holding spring sessions and finalizing details for fall sessions. Those sessions require many campus partnerships, and Rouillard works with more than 80 offices across the university to make them happen.
Rouillard is continuing his own education, working toward a doctorate from the Louise McBee Institute of Higher Education to learn new skills and perspectives related to his work.
Outside of work, Rouillard is a fitness instructor and loves being outside and traveling. He and his wife welcomed a new baby in March, and they hope to get to know even more about Athens and get involved in the community.
As orientation sessions get started, he’s focused on making sure UGA’s newest students have what they need.
“When you think about your college experience, there are a few moments that really come to mind,” Rouillard said. “I hope everyone can draw a common line back to their orientation experience and can say they learned about their institution and felt empowered to make the experience their own.”