Alexis Anderson
Staff Writer
Flexibility, good communication, counseling and research skills, the ability to balance professional and personal lives, coupled with education and a love for students were some of the qualities shared with individuals interested in pursuing careers in student affairs at an Oct. 30th forum sponsored by the Jackson State University Division of Student Life.
Dr. Phillip Cockrell, Dean of Student Life, moderated the event as panelists shared their personal and professional perspective on student life and information on colleges and universities that offer master degrees in college student personnel, higher education, and student affairs administration.
Panelists included Dr. Marcus A. Chanay, Vice President for the Division of Student Life; Laquala Coleman, Associate Dean of Students/Judicial Services; Dr. Gary Crosby, Director of Center for Student Leadership and Involvement; and Lashanda Jordan, Director of the Career Services/Student Employment Center.
Chanay discussed some of the issues he and his colleagues face and how the ultimate goal is to do what is best for students. He added his memorable experience happened in the span of one weekend – dealing with a student who was shot on campus and having to house Tulane University students and prepare Jackson State students in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.
“The job of the student affairs professional is to help students access higher education, have the most enriching experience they can while they are in college, and then ultimately graduate. We have to keep good statistics of recruitment, retention, and graduation of students. We also face other challenges such as campus safety, technology, the abuse of alcohol and other drugs, and of course the latest economic challenges that are impacting our students and campus communities,” said Chanay.
Cockrell added that student affairs has changed over time and is more than just about activities. Professionals need to know about a wide range of university related areas such as recruitment, financial aid, housing, academic affairs, business and finance, grant writing, athletics, etc.
Crosby stated: “Understand best practices and what is working at other institutions, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. You must practice accountability and transparency.”
Jordan urged everyone to include counseling in their course of study because all student affairs personnel have to provide encouragement and mentor students. She also stressed the importance of these mentoring relationships for students who are not able to reach out to friends, professors, or family.
“You have to be prepared to talk to students on specific issues and sometimes they bring a different perspective which helps me think more broadly and comprehensively. I encourage new professionals to reach out and make a connection with a potential mentor and continue to build and develop those relationships,” said Jordan.
Coleman’s advice is to “be flexible, have ethical standards and do what is best for the students.”
All the panelists warned that a career in student affairs can become all-consuming and stressed that professionals have to find ways to balance work and personal life. “Love what you do, but know it can become your passion.”
The panelists also discussed the requirements to pursue a career in Student Affairs. Entry-level positions frequently require a master’s degree in college student personnel, counseling, or a related field. Many graduate programs in college student affairs offer graduate research assistant positions, which can serve as the first professional experience in student affairs. Cockrell also explained several opportunities available to students to increase their understanding of the profession, as well as networking with other student affairs officers and students.
“The NASPA Undergraduate Fellows Program mission is to increase the number of underrepresented professionals in student affairs and/or higher education. NASPA is a great gateway of understanding what is expected in this career and it’s nice to meet other people that may have the common interest that you inspired,” said Cockrell.
Henry Goss, a freshman mass communications major from Jackson, Miss., thought the forum was what he needed to make steps toward his career.
“I’m happy that I decided to attend the forum because I have pondered the thought of having a career in student affairs. Listening to the panel gave me insight of what to expect once I have made the decision to make the next step.”
Jeremy Sanford, a 2012 JSU graduate who is interning in the Dean of Students Office, also thought the forum was helpful for students who are considering a career in student affairs.
“I felt this forum was needed because many students need and want to know what is required for the career once they completed school. Students need to know what steps to take if they are seriously thinking about having a career in student life. It won’t hurt if they are prepared mentally to pursue whatever position they choose,” said Sanford.
