Careers in Student Affairs Month

In celebration of Careers in Student Affairs Month it is your chance to make a difference in someone else's life! As graduate students and new professionals our transition into the field is likely prominent in our minds. It is unlikely that any of us colored pictures in kindergarten of being a Student Affairs administrator. Most commonly, someone saw potential and reached out to guide each of us into the field. SCGSNP has some excellent ideas for ways that you can reach out to be that mentor for others. Together we can grow the future of our profession.

The first step is to identify students that may be interested in the field. Plant the seed during your next meeting with a promising student or during a one on one over coffee, "Have you ever thought of doing this as a career?" Begin engaging in that conversation with the students around you. Most students don't realize it is an option and will often respond with an extensive list of questions. Use your story and experiences while providing other resources as well.

Beyond one on one conversations with the students you already know here are some other ideas:

• Register for the free SCGSNP Careers in Student Affairs webinar. Advertise and invite students to participate.
• Host an interest session for students. Advertise around campus and invite other colleagues to help spread the word or facilitate. If you have any other campuses nearby consider inviting them as well--in addition to being a benefit for their students it could also help you to network with their professionals!
• Invite a senior Student Affairs officer to host a discussion group.
• Work with students to create a student organization for future Student Affairs professionals.
• Share with students about upcoming opportunities including attending ACPA's Next Gen conference to learn more about Student Affairs and graduate programs.

We each work with exceptional students each day and while not all of them will desire to be in Student Affairs, some may. Take the opportunity this month to serve as a resource to help build our future. If you or your institution are doing other programs or events please feel free to share with others in the comments.

This month is also a great chance to think about the individual(s) that helped to guide you into the field. In addition to building the future, I encourage you to take an extra moment to thank those that have helped or mentored you. You can also consider nominating them as the "Outstanding Mentor to Graduate Students" or the "Outstanding Mentor to New Professionals" awards. These are both great honors to show your appreciation for their commitment. Nominations can be submitted here: http://www2.myacpa.org/convention2/awards.