Traits of a Student Organization Advisor
See the traits you need to be an effective advisor to student organizations.
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Teacher and educator
Advisors use expertise, knowledge, and human relations skills to help teach students effectively.
- Advisors teach in an informal classroom setting where attendance is voluntary.
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Resource person
Advisors gain a great deal of experience over time, which becomes extremely valuable to an organization.
Some of the dimensions of a resource person include:
- Knowledge of University policies and services
- The ability to find pertinent information
- A historical perspective
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Coordinator and motivator
This role is close to that of a resource person and teacher but is more action oriented. The advisor:
- Acts as a motivator and overseer for the organization
- Provides direction and communication that keep the group moving toward its goal
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Partner and friend
This advisor trait is perhaps the easiest trait to fulfill. The advisor can:
- Provide students with an opportunity to vent their frustrations
- Become a friend and mentor to student volunteers
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Counselor
This role is designed to handle the most basic counseling needs.
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Accountable administrative official
Advisors need to be consistent and follow through when dealing with important matters.
Some of the responsibilities include:
- Completing University paperwork
- Working through proper channels
- Taking care of unresolved matters
- Cutting through red tape
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Other advisor traits
- Accessible
- Always prepared
- Consistent
- Creative
- Empathetic
- Energetic
- Flexible
- Good listener
- Good communicator
- Insightful
- Keen observer
- Objective
- Patient
- Sense of humor
- Trustworthy