CSAM Month in the Great Alaska Frontier

SAPros in Alaska offer a perspective to potential future SAPros on “What is Student Affairs” and the unique steps students from Alaska, and other remote areas within Region V where student affairs is a growing profession, can take to explore and enter the field of higher education. For the complete text or questions, feel free to contact Whitney Brown or Sam Holtshouser

Do you enjoy student leadership and on-campus employment experiences? Are you fulfilled by helping others and working with people on a personal level? Do you want an energizing workplace where each day is different and filled with new experiences? Did you know you can make a career of those experiences? Student Affairs is a dynamic career and has a variety of specialties within it that speak to a diverse array of individuals. Let’s explore how your college experience can lead you to a career in student affairs.

What is Student Affairs?

Student Affairs at UAA is an area within the institution that together provides an environment for our diverse student population to reach their greatest potential through inspiration, accessibility, and support.  Student Affairs throughout the world serves as a critical aspect of the higher education experience.  Student Affairs may have varying official titles and departments within it at varying institutions but the common thread is a collection of student support departments, services and programs at institutions of higher education that enhance the growth and development of students. 

 Student Affairs is a vibrant profession that includes a broad range of specializations in university offices such as Student Activities, Admissions, Campus Recreation, Career Services, Student Conduct, Health & Counseling, and Multicultural & Native Student Services, just to name a few, as well as responsibilities in human resources functions, marketing, facility management, budget development, and information technology. If you enjoy the campus environment, working with others to achieve their goals, and human growth and development, Student Affairs may be for you!

 Why Student Affairs?

•       The types of positions within student affairs are endless - whatever your passion is or unique skillset you have, there is likely a role for you.

•       A career in student affairs keeps you on your feet by offering continuous growth with unique experiences each day, providing you challenge and support and the opportunity to develop new skills and leadership roles.

•       This fun and inspiring work environment offers a fulfilling career with the opportunity to make a difference in students' lives - maybe even "the" difference in students' lives.

•       College and universities offer competitive salaries and amazing benefits - not only can you benefit from vacation time, medical and dental benefits, and retirement plans, you are provided access to reduced/free tuition, campus events, and recreational opportunities.

•       With campuses all over the world, you can work nearly anywhere and in whatever environment best suits you - campus range from urban to rural, large to small, public or private, religious, demographically diverse, and more.

Where to start – how does one enter a career in student affairs? These are some tips on how your college experience can lead you to a career in Student Affairs.