Leadership Notes

Tips for the NIRSA Annual Conference

By Diane Sylofski, National Student Representative, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

With the NIRSA Annual Conference just days away, I am sure you are anxiously attempting to get organized for your trip to Austin. In order to help you out a bit, the Student Leadership Team has some advice for sessions/meetings to attend, essentials to pack in your suitcase, and ways in which you can make the most of your Conference experience.

Whether you are a first-time attendee or approaching the conclusion of your student status, there are several things that are essential to your attendance at the Conference. Make sure you get to four important meetings that no NIRSA Student Member should miss: The Opening General Session on Wednesday at 4:00 pm to listen to keynote speaker Joe Martin, founder of the RealWorld University website; the Annual Student Business Meeting on Friday at 9:00 am, during which you will elect your 2008-2009 Student Leadership Team; your Regional Business Meeting on Friday at 4:00 pm; and the Annual Business Meeting on Saturday at 10:00 am to get updated on the status and future of the Association.

First-time attendees should definitely participate in the New Member Welcome directly following the Opening General Session. This hour-long “meet and greet” will introduce you to several NIRSA leaders while getting you better acquainted with the Association. If you are searching for a graduate assistantship or professional position, be sure to attend informational sessions for the positions sought, including one on the NIRSA National Center Intern position. Many students seeking positions end up spending their entire Conference in the Career Opportunities Center or interviewing for positions. Make sure you do your research before the Conference so that you do not get stuck in this situation. Though attending the Conference is quite advantageous to securing a position, take steps to ensure that you are able to attend other Conference sessions and programming. NIRSA Annual Conferences have endless educational opportunities, and this year is no exception. Take advantage of these chances, and attend some of those sessions that will benefit you personally and professionally.

For further advice on the sorts of things you should bring with you to the Conference, please visit the NIRSA website and read the Annual Conference Suitcase List. This list provides recommendations for things to do before the Conference and things to bring with you to the Conference. Remember these are only recommendations. Make sure to make your Conference experience your own. This is the most thrilling time of the NIRSA year, and I hope that you are as excited for the Conference as I am.

In order to make the most of your experience, make sure to participate in several aspects of the Conference, but try not to overwhelm yourself. This is an educative opportunity for personal and professional growth. Use the educational sessions, volunteering opportunities, and social events to network with other attendees, professionals and students, and to learn more about your program area, recreational sports, and NIRSA. The Annual Conference should be an enriching experience, not an overwhelming one.