Organization Advising
Contact
Center for Student Leadership & EngagementWeyerhaeuser Hall, Suite 103 651-696-6569
csle@macalester.edu
Hours
Student Organization Advisors
Though student organizations can consult with CSLE staff, they are also strongly encouraged to have a faculty or staff advisor. Student organizations will be required to have a dedicated Faculty or Staff advisor for the 2024-25 academic year, so please work to identify an advisor now. If you would like assistance in identifying an advisor, please contact CSLE ([email protected]).
The role of an advisor varies from group to group and depends on the organization’s needs and the personalities involved. It is important that the role the advisor will play in the organization is discussed and that everyone concerned has the same expectation of the advisor role. Both advisors and organizations must understand the roles and responsibilities that they hold in relation to each other and to the organization, and must be realistic and flexible when defining the advisor role.
Benefits for the Student Org
- Advice about being an effective leader in your organization
- Direction for planning successful events, meetings, etc.
- Guidance and assistance with any questions that your organization may have
- Ability to consult with an expert in a related field
Expectations of Advisors
- To assist the group in the formulation of long-term goals in addition to planning and initiating short-term projects
- To be available as a resource person
- To suggest and encourage improvements
- To serve as an ambassador for the organization
- To assist with evaluation of group projects and progress
- To assist leaders in practicing leadership and in problem solving
- To serve as a sounding board for the organization
Benefits for the Advisor
- Contact with students outside of the classroom setting
- Assisting students with leadership and management skills
- Establishing friendships with colleagues and students
- Watching students gain confidence and take pride in their accomplishments