Diary of a Student Development Professional

Today I renewed my membership to the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA). I am also a member of NASPA and ACPA. It can be overwhelming sometimes to keep up with the national and regional publications, not to mention the email distribution lists and committees, so why do I do it?

Here are several important reasons to join a professional organization:

1. Publications. Professional organizations publish journals, newsletters, and websites that are full of useful and up-to-date information. These publications will also inform you about the movers-and-shakers in the field.
2. Resources. Many professional organizations provide valuable resources for their members. Many times an organization will have resources for members only, and other times they will make the information generally available on their website. For example, NACADA has a great Clearinghouse of Academic Advising Resources on their website.
3. Leadership opportunities. Each professional organization has a hierarchical structure which usually includes leadership opportunities at various levels. There are often national and regional levels of leadership, as well as committees and sub-committees.
4. Conferences. Almost all professional organizations organize conferences which are a great place to share your research and work with others. There are usually opportunities to present individually, in a team, or at a poster session. Conferences are also a great place to hear well-known speakers and to network.
5. Networking. The more people you know the better! Getting to know other members in your professional organization could help you land a job or internship, or you could learn new and easier ways to do the job you already have!
6. Opportunities to publish. The journals, newsletters, and digital publications associated with professional organizations are a great place to submit research and reviews. If you aren’t ready to publish but still want to be involved, you may consider being a reviewer.
7. Grants. Many professional organizations are on the cutting edge of research in their fields, and often times they will support research in specific areas.
8. Professional development and training. In addition to conferences, many professional organizations offer specific professional development and training. For example, NASPA offers an Institute for New Senior Student Affairs Officers.
9. Discounts. Being a member of a professional organization often entitles you to discounts on their publications, workshops, and conferences.
10. Community. One of the biggest benefits of being a member of a professional organization is to be part of a community. Members often have access to forums, directories, and blogs, in addition to the opportunities to meet other professionals at workshops and conferences.

You don’t have to be a senior administrator to be involved in a professional organization.

Which organization(s) do you belong to?