Who is eligible to be a SJSU Student Organization Advisor?
An advisor can be any faculty or staff member at SJSU that holds at least a bachelors degree. Graduate students are subject to Student Involvement's approval. Employees of Auxiliary Offices (Associated Students, Spartan Shops, Student Union Inc.) may not serve as advisors (per California Code of Regulations, Title 5, Article 2). If more than one advisor is desired, the main advisor should be a San José State University faculty /staff member.
What is the time commitment for being an Advisor?
The time commitment varies per advisor and student organization but is ultimately up to your discretion. We strongly suggest having an expectations conversation with your executive cabinet prior to committing to the group. These expectations and standards should be clearly communicated.
If you choose to attend all meetings and events, it could be 1-4 hours per week. If you choose to meet with the group's officers and attend occasional events, it could be as little as 1-4 hours per month. You may choose to allow students to drop by your office at any time or may ask them to schedule appointments.
What are the responsibilities associated with being an Advisor?
The student organization advisor is mainly responsible for providing advising and guidance for the organization. They should intervene only to prevent the violation of SJSU policy, Student Code of Conduct, or Student Organization Code of Conduct. In addition, advisors are responsible for the health and well-being of our students. Below is a list of other responsibilities of a student organization advisor at SJSU:
What are the benefits to being an Advisor?
SJSU student organizations continue to be one of the focal points of campus life and provide wonderful co-curricular opportunities for our students. Advising a student organization is a rewarding experience that offers wonderful insight into our SJSU student population. You will have the opportunity to interact closely with a group of students, often in a capacity very different from your regular job. In addition, we hope that you will find the position rewarding because you will have the potential to make a positive impact on the lives of our students. Lastly, we have found that student organization advisors develop a stronger connection to the Spartan community through their work with student groups.
Can I be held responsible for my organization's mistakes?
You are there to help the organization make sound decisions, but ultimately, the students are responsible for those decisions. As long as you provide sound advice and guidance to the student groups, you are insured by the university in the role of an Advisor.
Where can I go to get assistance and support with my student organization?
The Student Organizations and Leadership (S.O.A.L.) Team is here to assist in the success of student groups, including providing support to student organization advisors. On our website, you will find resources for advisors such as policies and forms, developmental handouts, and a virtual advisor orientation. In addition, professional staff of the S.O.A.L. Team is available to meet with you for any of your needs or concerns.
How are student organizations governed?
Student organizations at San José State University are self-governed. Their actions, activities, and interests are determined by the membership of the organization. Student organization advisors are responsible for providing advising and guidance for the organization. Advisors or other University officials should intervene only to prevent the violation of SJSU policy, Student Code of Conduct, or Student Organization Code of Conduct. If questions or concerns arise, please contact Student Involvement at 408-924-5950.
**If you are interested in serving as a Student Organization Advisor, please contact the S.O.A.L. Team at 408-924-5950 or stop by Clark Hall 140.
print
email