‘Tis the season at Northwood!

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.” – John Quincy Adams

Yes, I realize it is not December. But regardless, here at Northwood, it is the season to get involved…and start planning for next year! (Yes, already!) With Spring Break in the past and the semester’s end quickly approaching (in fact, graduation is in 51 days!), students are working to balance finishing this year strong, while still ensuring that plans fall are already in place!

This first dawned on me when I realized that students were already registering for next year’s classes, and I wasn’t. I can remember a time when I would have been well aware and prepared to enroll for the next semester! As soon as class lists and schedules were posted, I was "that student" who was coordinating my schedule…factoring in my favorite teachers, food schedules (always have to make sure you can squeeze in lunch!), and of course, my degree plan.

But for those of us who aren’t quite as nerdy as I am, there are also plenty of other ways to plan for the fall! The month of March is full of opportunity, including interviewing to be on next year’s housing team, working with new students at orientation, being selected to serve as a Student Ambassador, planning student events, and even campaigning to serve on Student Government!

(Some Resident Assitants! Natasha, Madison, Jessica)

Resident Assistant

As an RA, I have had the opportunity to see both sides of the application and interview process to join the housing team. This year, there were several exceptional candidates that went through the process, which involves a panel interview, group activity, and a one-on-one interview with the housing director, not to mention an application, essay, and letters of recommendation! As an RA, you are responsible for overseeing the students that live in your assigned dorm, providing programming for residents, and assisting with various maintenance and cleaning procedures. I will say, it is definitely a rewarding and educational experience!

(Miguel Ibarra, an ambassador, giving a tour!)

Student Ambassador

The Royal Ambassador program is definitely a fun experience. I love having the chance to interact with prospective students! As you may have seen in one of my earlier blogs, we have the opportunity to assist admissions counselors at college fairs, provide tours for interested students, serve on panels, and help out at various events on campus. As with any leadership role, it is an honor and privilege to be considered a Royal Ambassador, but also a great chance to develop your interpersonal and communication skills.

Student Government Association

What better way is there to help make a difference on campus than to represent the voice of your student body?! SGA is there for just that purpose. We have the chance to not only serve as the liaison between students and the university, but to work on various projects that help improve the campus! Last year, SGA transformed what was formerly known as the “green room” (and rightfully so, what with the lime green furniture and all!) into the “Knight’s Lounge.” This year, the organization is tackling redesigning the porch of the Butler building to make it more functional to students and faculty, as well as aesthetically pleasing to the eye.

Campus Activities Board

Remember the post you saw about the band Augustine? Well that event, plus several others, was planned and hosted by CAB! From attending a conference in the fall for ideas, to booking acts, and planning every last detail, CAB is a fun way to learn the ins and outs of event planning. Plus, a job requirement is to attend all the fun events that we put together…oh bummer. J There are various students involved in this group, some of whom serve as officers and are responsible for specific activities, such as promotions, on-campus events, off-campus events, and campus traditions, to name a few. In fact, CAB will soon be electing the officers for next year!

 Orientation Leader

The best way to get to know the incoming students (freshmen and transfer) is definitely to be an orientation leader. From interacting with students over the summer, to facilitation activities during the week before school, these leaders have fun while getting to interact with the latest additions to the student body! In the past, fun activities have included a ropes course (Mount Lebanon), fajitas and a game night at “Dave and Busters,” and various skits and games! The applications are available now for those of you who are interested in this position!

(Students at 2010 Squire Camp!)

So, as you can, there are plenty of ways to get involved in leadership roles at Northwood! Aside from the previously discussed organizations, there are also various others…including but not limited to: Collegiate DECA, the Green Group, and Greek life (with Zeta Phi, Kappa Theta, and Beta Phi Chi). I hope this run-down didn’t overwhelm you, but only encouraged you to get out there and get involved!