QUICK TIPS FOR EMERGING LEADERS

THE VALUE OF LEADERSHIP INVOLVEMENT

By: Robert Vincent, Center for Student Leadership Development, University of Rhode Island, Memorial Union 210, Kingston, RI 02881, Tel:401-874-9013, Fax: 401-874-5317, www.mu.uri.edu/leadership

College is a time that encourages exploration and experimentation to help you determine where you are headed in life. The principles, values, people, places, organizations, activities and events you encounter or engage in will become a road map that will mark your journey.

In John Gardner's book, Your College Experience: Strategies for Success, he identifies the nine basic benefits of campus and community involvement:

1) "YOU'LL MEET PEOPLE"

-with interesting perspectives and diverse backgrounds
-who may share common interests and become your friend

2) "YOU'LL EXPERIMENT AND GAIN EXPERIENCE"

-by trying new things you have never encountered
-by challenging yourself with things you were unsure of or afraid to try

3) "YOU'LL IMPROVE YOUR ABILITIES"

-by building upon your personal skills
-by discovering a hidden talent or future proficiency

4) "YOU'LL GET THE MOST OUT OF COLLEGE

-by balancing curricular and co-curricular experiences
-by becoming aware of and participating in the college community and its unique experiences

5) "YOU'LL FEEL AT HOME FASTER"

-by feeling needed and valued
-by investing yourself in campus and community experiences

6) "YOU'LL MANAGE STRESS BETTER"

-by creating outlets to channel that stress
-by developing healthy lifestyles

7) "YOU'LL ORGANIZE YOUR TIME BETTER"

-by becoming more efficient as a result of increased demands upon your time
-by reducing the opportunities to procrastinate

8) "YOU'LL IMPROVE YOUR RESUME"

-by marketing the skills you learned through your involvement with campus activities, events and organizations
-by becoming a well-rounded individual

9) "YOU'LL MEET ORGANIZATION ADVISORS"

-who may become information resources, referral sources, trusted mentors, or friends
-who may provide a different perspective or write a letter of reference for you

When active students look back on their college experiences they have fond memories of their activities inside and outside the classroom. They attest to the learning and the satisfaction experienced through involvement. By combining the skills you develop through campus and community involvement with the knowledge you learn in the classroom, you become much better prepared for your future.

HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT GROUP FOR YOU                                    (Vincent, 2004 (URI Center for Student Leadership Development)

The University, as a part of its educational mission, supports and encourages participation in co-curricular activities as an integral part of your total education. The advantage of attending the University of Rhode Island is the hundreds of diverse opportunities that are offered each year. In addition to campus life, the State of Rhode Island has many additional opportunities for participation and service.

Whether you wish to explore a new activity, widen your circle of friends, or promote knowledge of a cause, there is probably an organization fro you to begin to develop your leadership. If there isn't, you may want to think about starting your own.

Being a member of a student organization enriches your years at URI in many ways. The good friends and good times help transform what is sometimes a large overwhelming institution into a place you can call "home". Student organizations also give you opportunities to explore new interests, develop skills, enhance your academic program, and have an impact on the University community. Get involved! Join a student organization! However, with over 100 organizations on campus you may be wondering how to find the best group for you?

You've made a good start by beginning the investigation process here. We have helpful staff and lots of information to start you on your way. Our advice is to first consider:

WHAT'S IMPORTANT TO ME?

Ask yourself some of these questions:

• What am I looking for in an organization?
• Do I primarily want to make new friends?
• Do I want to work on something I believe in?
• Do I want to explore something new?
• Should I be in a group that relates to my major or career choice?
• Do I want a real break from my academics?
• Shall I continue an interest from high school?
• Do I want to be of real service to the campus or community?
• Do I want to help make things happen?
• How much time do I have for an organization?
• Are there financial considerations?

WHAT KIND OF GROUPS ARE THERE?

URI’s student organizations consist of a variety of people, ideas and concerns. There are numerous organizations in each of the following categories:

HOW DO I GET MORE INFORMATION?

The Memorial Union Office of Student Involvement and the Student Senate annually publishes a Student Organization Resource Guide. This publication offers a short description of each registered organization.

HOW DO I TAKE THE PLUNGE?

First of all, remember that most organizations are far more nervous about recruiting you than you may be about joining them. They really do want new members and are very eager to answer your questions and explain their activities and purposes.

Many groups have "Informational Meetings" at the beginning of each term. These are open to any interested student. You're under no obligation to join the group if you attend - it's simply a chance to get more information and for the group to learn of your interest. If you miss this meeting or find out about a group during the year, call a contact person and ask when the next meeting is. If meeting times and programs are posted, you can always assume you're welcome. Of course, some organizations, such as honoraries, fraternities and sororities, have selected memberships, so be sure to find out the particulars in those cases.

Once you've joined an organization, don't just sit back and wait for something to happen. Introduce yourself to people, ask questions, express ideas, and be sure to volunteer your time and energy. Remember, you won't be truly involved with a specific group and feel like you belong unless you're a contributing member.

Also, if you are considering running for a leadership position within a student organization or would just like to become more informed on the group process, the staff of the Center for Student Leadership Development recommends that you refer to the resources available through the Student Organization Leadership Consultants or visit the Leadership Interns at the Student Program Office in the Memorial Union..

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