For those of us that work in Student Affairs in Higher Education, we are often asked why we picked this particular profession and what do you do when you work in Student Affairs. Here at Missouri State University, “the Division of Student Affairs’ mission is to support student success, foster student engagement, inspire commitment to public affairs, and instill pride and tradition.”
The Division of Student Affairs is committed to supporting the Missouri State University community in its efforts to develop educated people. The Division consists of multiple support services, including departments dedicated to residence life, student conduct, enrollment management, student engagement, student health, orientation, and multicultural and career services.
October is Careers in Student Affairs Month so we wanted to know the reasons someone would choose to work with college students. To get that answer, we went to the experts and asked. We got some great answers.
“I chose to be a professional in Student Affairs because of the meaningful work and the dynamic environment of higher education. Success isn’t measured by checklist; it’s measured by what we learn together and how we use that knowledge to impact the world. In Student Affairs, I can blend my passion for relationship building, education, and health and wellness in one career.”~ Ashleigh Lewellen, Director, Foster Family Rec Center
“The opportunity to build community, as an RA, resonated with me so much that it overshadowed the prospect of working in my chosen major/field. Being able to then translate that opportunity into a career and amplify it across the positions I have held has been an incredibly rewarding experience. I look forward to coming to work each day to enhance the student experience, which keeps me energized and affirms that I made the best decision possible to choose Student Affairs.”~Terry Weber, Director of the Plaster Student Union
“Helping others learn and reach their full potential provides me with a lot of joy and fulfillment. Student affairs is one of few fields that allow you to do just that. Along the way, I’ve discovered that challenging others to grow helps me do so, as well.”~Joe Morris, Director, New Student & Family Programs
“Sometimes I feel like Student Affairs, especially Housing chose me! I went to college to teach and did so for three years as I did graduate work here. And that led me to a hall director position where I lived with my class! I no longer live on, but I do feel like in some way I still teach every day.”~Gary Stewart, Director, Residence Life, Housing and Dining Services
“The work done in Student Affairs helps to holistically support student success. We involve students in their learning process through actively engaging them in the campus and local communities. I chose student affairs so that I could help students become more self-aware and confident, culturally competent, and model citizens. I believe that students must be actively involved in their college experience in order to own their achievements and the success of the future.”~Dr. Rabekah Stewart, Executive Director, TRIO Programs
If you or someone you know is interested in a career in Student Affairs, please join us for the “Interest in Student Affairs as a Career Lunch and Learn” on 10/30, 12:30 pm in PSU 317.