Set Early Expectations
Start with an open conversation about your expectations for the RSO and their expectations for your role as Advisor.
Be Available
Make sure student leaders can reach you via email or office phone and consider attending regular meetings or events.
Challenge the RSO
Encourage students to step outside their comfort zones and try new things.
Serve as an Information Resource
Officers will frequently consult you about programs and activities. Your role is to support and advise, not to take control.
Advising Dos and Don’ts
As an Advisor, you model leadership for your students, the way you guide, support, and challenge them sets the tone for their development.
DO:
- Allow your students to fail and succeed
- Know your own limits and your students’ limits
- Be visible and consistent
- Trust yourself with your RSO
- Read and understand your RSO's Constitution
- Teach the art of leadership
DON’T:
- Control or manipulate your RSO
- Take ownership of your RSO’s decisions
- Limit communication
- Fear trying new ideas
- Act like a know-it-all or a Fixer
- Say “I told you so”