Julia LoTempio (Left) and Rowan Nothnagle (Right)

Mighty Oak Monday: Julia LoTempio and Rowan Nothnagle

07/31/2023

Rowan Nothnagle
Major: Biochemistry
Hometown: Caledonia, New York
Class of ’24

Julia LoTempio
Major: Wildlife Science
Hometown: Buffalo, New York
Class of ’25

Meet your 2023 Head Orientation Leaders (OL) Rowan Nothnagle and Julia LoTempio. Along with their fellow OLs, they are excited to welcome a new class of Mighty Oaks. Here’s a look at what they have to say about orientation and being an ESF student.

Q: What can new students expect out of orientation this year, and  from the Orientation Leaders?

LoTempio:  The best way to embrace orientation is by letting yourself be open to new people and experiences, and to push yourself — at least a little bit — outside of your comfort zone. 

Nothnagle: New students can expect to meet their classmates and mingle with the OLs. This year we have a phenomenal group of new and returning leaders. Come into orientation with an open mind and I assure you, you will have a great time!

Q: What’s your favorite memory from when you were a first-year at orientation?

Nothnagle: There was one night when everyone went out on the Quad and we played these icebreaking games. In one of the games you ran across the Quad when something was called out about you and in another, you had a conversation with someone only using one word.  It was a blast!

LoTempio: I have fond memories of icebreaker games too! I think we did the same one. Icebreaker games with the OLs really helped me get to know a bunch of new people better and it was also super fun!

Q: What inspired you to become a head OL?

LoTempio: Since arriving at ESF I've created so many great friendships and memories, and I wanted to help spread my love for the school to others! My first year as an Orientation Leader was some of the most fun I've had. Getting to be a slightly larger part of the process and helping make orientation the best it can be was a no-brainer.

Nothnagle: I wanted to become an OL to make the incoming students feel more connected with each other and me so they could have someone to talk to during this transitional period in their lives. I wanted them to see me as their friend. It was a big step to go from just being an OL to being head OL, but I felt ready to take it.

Q: What can students do during the first couple of weeks to make the most of their college experience?

Nothnagle: Check your email, engage.esf.edu, or ESF’s Instagram for events planned by students on campus. Also check the Syracuse University (SU) event calendar for things you can participate in. Many of SU’s events and clubs are open to ESF students.

LoTempio:  As tempting as it is, don't go home during your first few free weekends. The more continuous time spent on campus, in the beginning, will really help you to adapt to college life and being away from home quicker. 

For more information on Orientation, visit the New Students Website.