The Division for Student Affairs recently held a panel discussion, featuring personnel from throughout the division.
Arthur Jackson, vice chancellor for student affairs, provided an overview of the division and how the various departments contribute to student life.
“Careers in Student Affairs” panelists were Bonny Boutet, assistant director of fraternity and sorority life; Jim Hoppa, associate vice chancellor of student union, activities and recreation; Thanh Le, assistant director of student activities for special programs of the Campus Activities Board; and Casey Tullos, assistant director for academic initiatives and staff programs in the Office of Housing and Residence Life.
A small reception and social kicked off the event. Afterward, panelists discussed their educational backgrounds and their journey into the student affairs profession.
While the panel members entered the field from different backgrounds, ranging from teaching high school to engineering, they did center on the common topic of master’s and doctoral programs in higher education. They also talked about the need to have a passion for and commitment to student life and student development as a way to foster a rewarding and successful career path.
Students asked questions about roadblocks to a career in student affairs, the transition from a student worker in student affairs to a professional in student affairs and other aspects of the field.