For more than 20 years, the Pre-Orientation Service Program (POSP) has fostered student leadership by encouraging new students to move in early to get to know campus and community through meaningful community engagement. (Photo | JaQuan Alston)
By: Kelly Huth
Putting down roots at a new school in a new city can be overwhelming. For first-year students, Lafayette offers a way to connect with the campus and get to know their community before Orientation begins.
For more than 20 years, the Pre-Orientation Service Program (POSP) has fostered student leadership by encouraging new students to move in early to take advantage of meaningful community engagement in and around Easton for the days leading up to their official start at Lafayette.
POSP participants spent their first five days volunteering at Easton Garden Works, The Neighborhood Center, LaFarm, Firth Youth Center, Paxinosa Elementary School, and Gracedale Nursing Home.
Thirty-two incoming students and 35 returning students spent their days working in community gardens and farms, learning about local food systems, singing alongside nursing home residents, and mentoring local children through hands-on, STEM-centered activities.
“POSP gives students the chance to learn what it really means to be part of a community before they even step into their first class,” says Jodi Fowler, associate director, civic leadership programs, Landis Center for Community Engagement. “They learn from their peers, work alongside community partners, and experience Easton in an authentic way from day one. Our community partners shared such positive feedback about the students and their contributions; a testament to the dedication of our student leaders and the values this program instills. We hope the relationships they build and the lessons they learn during POSP stay with them throughout their four years at Lafayette.”
In addition to time spent volunteering with community partners, POSP students had the opportunity to enjoy lunch at Easton Public Market, take part in game nights, a dance, a barbecue with international students, and enjoy ice cream from Bank Street Creamery.
POSP co-director Lauren Davidson ’27 says the program helps new students build confidence and friendships as they get more comfortable around Easton and Lafayette.
“POSP is the most special program I’ve had the privilege of being a part of at Lafayette,” co-director Paulina Royzman ’27 adds. “After four years in the program, I’ve watched it culminate in a week of community engagement, building enduring connections with community partners and true rising civic leadership among first-year students. It’s incredibly meaningful to see.”
