October marks Careers in Student Affairs Month
Released: October 25, 2006
Student affairs is an exciting career option that provides the opportunity to work on a college campus and make a difference in the lives of students.
On Monday, Oct. 16, students at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater were invited to attend the Student Affairs Panel at the Fern Young Terrace as part of "Careers in Student Affairs Month." Recent graduates and professionals in the field discussed career options in student affairs, including the areas of leadership, new student programs, residence life, recreation sports, career services and more.
"The great thing about student affairs is that there is a lot to do, from athletics to admissions, you can find what is right for you," Residence Hall Manager Dave Laur said.
The panel discussed ways students can get involved from volunteering to internships. Tisa Mason, dean of students, Elizabeth Watson, director of the center for students with disabilities, Rich Jazdzewski, senior psychologist at university health and counseling services and Jen Kaina, recreation sports, were among the members on the panel.
The panel stressed finding a goodness of fit and a career path that is not only appealing, but also rewarding. Students can start early by taking advantage of opportunities on campus to become more involved and network. By taking the time to research and learn, students can open doors for themselves in the field of student affairs.
On Wednesday, Oct. 18, approximately 20 students attended the "Careers in Student Affairs Week" career fair, where representatives from residence life, new student programs, university health and counseling services, recreation sports and financial aid were available to talk with students. Representatives provided information and insights about what it is like to work on a college campus.
Finally, Nov. 5 is the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) "Bring a Student Challenge." NASPA will host a one-day conference for students interested in the field of student affairs and UW-Whitewater student affairs is planning to send 15 students to the conference in Oak Brook, Ill.
Throughout the month of October, students also have the opportunity to shadow various professionals in the field of student affairs on campus.
At UW-Whitewater, the goal of student affairs is to maximize student success, including academic, personal and professional development by collaborating with students, faculty, staff and others. Student affairs strives to promote student success by creating and enriching the learning environment, and shapes the learning experience by providing opportunities for student responsibility and development. In addition, student affairs offers an array of high quality services and facilities to encourage campus and community partnerships.
For more information, contact Dave Laur laurd@uww.edu or (262) 472-2630.- Patti Schenker,schenkerpl07@uww.edu
