New Student Orientation director sets new classes up for success

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.”

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.