Are you interested in a career in student affairs but don't know where to start?  Check out these tips to get you on the right path!

1. Talk to staff members in the USI Student Affairs division.  Ask how they became interested and involved in student affairs.  Find out where they attended college and what degree program(s) they completed.  Student Affairs' staff love to talk about their experiences!
    
2. Research graduate programs.  Most entry level professional jobs in student affairs require, if not highly recommended, a master's degree in higher education, education administration, or a related field.
    
3. Visit Career Counseling.  Discuss your strengths and interests.  Take an assessment to help you better understand your interests, skills, and abilities.
    
4. Visit Career Services and Placement to learn about potential co-op or internship opportunities.  If none exist, consider asking a department you have an interest in to sponsor an internship or volunteer opportunity.
    
5. Plan ahead!  Find out if there are courses you can take as an undergraduate that can provide you experience in the field. 
    
6. Participate in relevant student organizations and opportunities.  Many former resident assistants enter the field of student affairs and find their undergraduate experience invaluable.  Other examples:  Students at USI can work as an AMIGO to gain orientation perspectives, join APB to learn event planning, or be a student ambassador and provide guests with campus information and a current student's view of USI.
    
7. Attend a conference.  Consider attending a conference in either a general student affairs professional organization or a more specific, area-related organization.  ACPA and NASPA are two of the larger general student affairs professional organizations with national, regional and local conferences.  Examples of area-related organizations include NAFSA (international education), NACAC (admission), NACA (student activities), and NASFAA (financial aid).

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