Reasons Why Working in Student Affairs Might Be Right for You

DSA News
October 29, 2024

Every October, National Association Student Personnel Association (NASPA) celebrates the profession of Student Affairs. In honor of this celebration, I wanted to share some insights on why a career in Student Affairs might be a great fit for you.

After transferring from HISD’s Jack Yates Magnet Program – School of Communication and initially planning a career in business, my path took an unexpected turn during my junior year at the Mirabeau B. Lamar Magnet Program - School of Business. My English teacher saw potential in me and suggested that I explore a career in higher education, and he believed I would make a good administrator. As a soon-to-be first-generation college student, I understood that college was the next step after high school, but I had not yet connected “higher education” with a specific career path.

Fast forward to my first year in college, I found myself working in career services and in the Vice President of Student Affairs offices at Texas State University (formerly Southwest Texas State University) through a work-study program. After graduating, I worked in various roles in corporate and nonprofit sectors such as human resources, recruiting, banking, sales and technology. When I started a family, I wanted a job where I could help people and didn’t require travel, unlike my previous corporate recruiting position. Discussing my desires with a friend, she referred me to an opportunity at The University of Texas at Austin. That's when my second career began working in higher education—and my first thought was, "I hope I won’t get bored working at a college." In 2001, I began working at the McCombs School of Business as a BBA career counselor.

To my surprise, in over 23 years of working in Student Affairs, I have never been bored. There’s been so much variety in my daily work.

Here’s some insight from my journey and why Student Affairs might be right for you, whether you're considering your first, second, or even third career.

Endless Opportunities for Growth

Student Affairs offers diverse roles and continuous learning. Whether you're interested in student involvement, career services, student success programs, housing, student life, or academic advising, the opportunities are vast and varied.

Making an Impact:

In this field, your work directly impacts students' lives. Every day offers an opportunity to help someone discover their path, overcome challenges, and succeed both academically and personally. It's both challenging and deeply rewarding. The greatest reward is seeing students achieve their goals, especially when they become the first in their family to graduate from college. I share in the family's pride as they watch their student walk across the stage—it's a moment that never gets old.

Community and Connection:

Working in Student Affairs means becoming part of a larger campus community. You’ll build meaningful relationships with students, families, alumni, faculty, staff, employers, and community partners, all while fostering a supportive environment for everyone to thrive. You'll also gain access to mentors and champions who will help guide you along the way. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to mentor students and new professionals entering the field.

Flexibility in Career Path:

Student Affairs offers flexibility in career progression, allowing you to explore and develop skills that will help you advance in Student Affairs or transition into Academic Affairs. Whether you're looking to move into leadership, specialize in a particular area, or pivot to something new, this field offers room for growth and evolution.

Professional Development and Growth:

In Student Affairs, you'll have access to training to enhance your technical, communication, and leadership skills, and the chance to pursue an advanced degree. Participating in these opportunities, along with serving on work groups or task forces, will increase your exposure and support your career advancement. Additionally,  NASPA's Undergraduate Fellows Program (NUFP) is an excellent pipeline into the profession.

Share Your Love for Learning and Have Fun:

Student Affairs often involves creating and presenting innovative programs to support students. Many established learning outcomes involve fun and creative approaches. You’ll have the chance to bring your passion, personality, and style to delivering content and serving students.

Sounds good, but how do you know Student Affairs might be right for you?

If you enjoy coaching and supporting students, solving problems, working in teams, collaborating, leading, analyzing data, creating new and innovative programs, presenting, writing, marketing and communications, or developing program and budget proposals, you should explore jobs in Student Affairs within higher education in Texas and across the country. Additionally, if you work on campus or you are a student employee within the Division of Student Affairs, talk to your leaders about their career path and potential opportunities that align with your career interest or major. 

As you consider your career options, remember that higher education is an industry, just like other sectors, and Student Affairs offers not just a job, but a fulfilling, impactful profession in multiple disciplines such as marketing, finance, health and wellness, construction, engineering, facilities, and operations. Whether you're starting fresh or looking to transition, it could be the right fit for you.

Special Note to Coogs:

The University Career Services team is here to support you as you explore careers and set your goals. Stop by for virtual drop-ins or make an appointment on Cougar Pathway.

Written by:
Monica D. Thompson, Ed.D
Executive Director, University Career Services – Student Affairs
Career Launch: Empowering Coogs, Transforming Futures