Leadership Notes

Diversity: The key to professional success

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

As this is my last NIRSA Know article as National Student Representative (NSR-elect Rachael Finley will be taking over in June), I would like to leave with a few reflections on the past year and encouragement for the future.

The Student Leadership Team (SLT) set out to accomplish some pretty aggressive goals, and though not everything was accomplished, some of our objectives far exceeded our expectations. As I attended several conferences and Lead Ons, I was extremely impressed with the level of discussion that took place among student attendees. I was able to see the differences among the regions, and how each perspective can support each other. I am concerned, however, that the fire we ignite dwindles as we return to our home institutions. We are extremely engaged at conferences, but forget about this involvement at home. Remember that the SLT represents the NIRSA Student Members. Therefore, your voice is important to the success of the team, which directly affects you. As leaders, these members strive to understand the wants and needs of the Student Members. Without your input this understanding can be limited. I had hoped that more students would get involved in the accomplishment of SLT goals in 2007-2008, but was somewhat disappointed in the level of interest. I encourage you to explore methods of involvement, including assisting with the 2008-2009 goals, which have yet to be developed. However, your input can impact the goals.

Use this summer to expand your experiences by trying new things. Diverse experiences promote personal enrichment and will make you a strong candidate for graduate assistantships and professional positions. So take that extra certification exam, become a challenge course facilitator, work at a summer camp, coach your niece or nephew’s little league team, or work in a different Campus Rec program area. Summertime, whether you’re on campus or off, is a great time to try some of those things you cannot do during the school year. Commit to trying something new. Diversify, and you just may find a new niche.

With the new Student Leadership Team gearing up for their retreat in Corvallis, Oregon in June, it’s never too early or too late to think about your involvement. Begin asking questions about leadership positions, like Regional Student Representative and National Student Representative. Find out where the regional conference and/or Student Lead On will be held in your region, and serve on one of the committees. Start thinking about that presentation proposal you would like to submit to your regional conference.

Furthermore, the SLT is still looking to fill many of the State Student Representative positions; please contact your Regional Student Representative (the new or the old) to find out if your state is still looking for a representative. 2008-2009 NIRSA committees and work teams still need Student Members. Please log in to the NIRSA website to view the existing committees and work teams. Then contact NIRSA President Vicki Highstreet to see how you can get involved.

I encourage all of you to get more involved this summer and to begin thinking about ways in which you can get involved next fall. Engagement with NIRSA and with Recreational Sports will help you to develop greater ownership of your professional experiences. Involvement is contagious – once you start you can’t stop, and, as positive role models, you can help others get involved as well. I can truly say that my experience as a student leader and a member of the NIRSA Board of Directors has been one of the most meaningful professional and personal experiences I have had. Though it was hard work most of the time, I have never had as much fun as I have had during the past year. Volunteer experiences, no matter how big or how small, can impact us positively personally and professionally (a little volunteering never hurts your resume). If you are unsure where to start, contact a mentor, supervisor, Regional Student Representative, or me. A record-breaking 813 students attended the Annual Conference in Austin. Don’t let the fire ignited in Austin fade, but continue the blaze, as you seek additional opportunities this summer and beyond.