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Registered Student Organization Advisers

Selecting an RSO Adviser

When selecting a RSO adviser, find a faculty or staff member who will have the time to devote to your organization. Make sure that this person will take the role willingly and seriously, and find someone who has knowledge or skills related to the mission/purpose of the organization.

Make certain that he or she has a clear understanding of the organization's purpose. Discuss with the potential RSO adviser what is required of him or her, his or her duties, and the time commitment involved. Be open and honest with the potential RSO adviser about the types of activities in which the organization may participate.

Allow the person a reasonable length of time to consider his or her decision. If possible, choose someone who shares some of the same interests as the organization, and who has previously interacted with the leadership of the organization.

The Role of the RSO Adviser

By sharing both knowledge about the university and personal experiences, the RSO adviser can assist the organization in the conduct of its activities. In addition, valuable, mutually rewarding, co-curricular relationships between students and RSO advisers are fostered.

The list that follows contains possible roles of an RSO adviser. It is important that the RSO adviser and the organization communicate their expectations to each other. The RSO adviser should be very clear about the things he or she will do, and the things he or she will not do. Of course, the expectations will vary according to the needs of the organization and the RSO adviser.

  • The RSO adviser recognizes and supports participation in student organizations for its contributions to the educational and personal development of students.
  • The RSO adviser should work with the registered student organization but not dictate the organization's programs or activities. However, the RSO adviser should be frank in offering suggestions, considerations or ideas, and discussing possible consequences.
  • The RSO adviser should be well informed about the plans and activities of the organization. The expectation is that the RSO adviser will attend some meetings and will consult frequently with the organization's officers.
  • The RSO adviser should know the goals and direction of the organization and should help the organization evaluate its progress.
  • The RSO adviser should be aware of the constitution and bylaws of the organization and help with interpretation, if applicable.
  • The RSO adviser provides a source of continuity within the organization and is familiar with the organization's history.
  • The RSO adviser should be familiar with university policies and procedures and help the organization comply with them.
  • The RSO adviser should be aware of the general financial condition of the organization, and encourage good record keeping.
  • The RSO adviser should help in training new officers and help them develop their leadership skills.
  • The RSO adviser should be prepared to resolve major problems or emergencies within the organization.
  • The RSO adviser should monitor group functioning and encourage members to fully participate, to assume appropriate responsibility for group activities, to maintain a balance between academic activities, and to maintain a balance between academic activities and co-curricular commitments.

The Organization's Responsibilities to the RSO Adviser

Keep in mind that the RSO adviser is voluntarily associated with the organization. It is the organization's responsibility to inform the RSO adviser on the activities of the organization.

  • Notify the RSO adviser of all meetings and events
  • Consult your RSO adviser in the planning of all activities.
  • Consult him or her before any changes in the structure of the organization, or in the policies of the organization are made, and before major projects are undertaken.
  • Understand that although the RSO adviser has no vote that he or she should have speaking privileges.
  • Remember that the responsibility for the success or failure of the organization project rests ultimately with the group, not the RSO adviser.
  • Talk over any problems or concerns with the RSO adviser.
  • Acknowledge that the RSO adviser's time and energy are donated and express appreciation.
  • Be clear and open about your expectations for your RSO adviser's role.
  • At the end of each semester, evaluate your RSO adviser and give appropriate feedback.

Suggestions for Effective Advising

The maturity or skill level of the organization and its leadership should dictate your style of advising. If they have beginning skill levels, you may need to be more actively involved with the organization. As the leaders' skill level matures, you can then decrease the amount of direction you provide to the organization.

  • Express sincere enthusiasm and interest in the group and its activities.
  • Be open to feedback from the group. Talk with them regarding your role as RSO adviser. Be willing to admit mistakes.
  • Provide feedback to the group and the leaders regarding their performance.
  • Be familiar with the Institutional Rules on Student Services and Activities and the Student Activities Web site so that you can be a knowledgeable resource for the group.
  • Participate with the organization and get to know the members. Be available and accessible to them. They will feel more comfortable with you and be more open to your input if they know you.
  • Following organization meetings, discuss any problems encountered during the meeting with the officers.
  • Be careful of becoming too involved with the organization. Remember that you are not a member. Your role is to advise, assist, and facilitate.