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From the Editor
Transitions are a constant part of our careers. Each year, those of us working with college students complete a cycle. Components of that cycle include orientation, new member recruitment/intake, officer elections, and graduation. We take a break and then we start all over again. This month’s Essentials focuses on transitions. In this edition you will find a reflection on the transition from being a campus-based professional to an organizational staff member, a discussion about the challenges faced by maturing Asian American fraternities and sororities, advice on balancing work and parenthood, and a book review on renewal strategies. As spring transitions to summer, take time to think about the transitions you face in your life and the ways you can help yourself and the organizations with whom you work manage these changes successfully.
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The Transition from Fraternity/Sorority Professional to Motherhood… or Was It a Collision?
Transitions are part of life and are certainly part of careers. Although never easy, transitions provide opportunities for growth, development, and the renewal of goals. In many cases, a transition in one aspect of a person’s life unavoidably impacts other aspects of a person’s life. For example, a change in position or career will likely impact one’s personal life due to relocation or a change in professional expectations. >>Read full article
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Bridging the Divide
“So, you are going to the dark side?” said one campus colleague. “Welcome to the dark side,” said a headquarters staff member. The term “dark side” was jokingly used by campus-based professionals in reference to fraternity/sorority headquarters staff positions. It is a sad reflection of perceived relationships that exist between campus-based professionals and headquarters staff members, both key stakeholders in the fraternity movement. >>Read full article
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Book Review: Renewal Coaching: Sustainable Change for Individuals and Organizations
“What are the most critical issues facing the interfraternal community today?” This is a question often posed to fraternity/sorority professionals. The most likely answers will relate directly to the challenges facing student members of the fraternity/sorority community–hazing, the bystander effect, or alcohol abuse. However, I would challenge you to reconsider this question: rather than focusing on students, reflect on the most critical issues facing today’s fraternity/sorority professionals. >>Read full article
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Rising to the Challenge: Opportunities for Stronger Asian American Fraternities and Sororities
A trip down memory lane often reveals key moments in our lives where we faced uncertainty. For example, many graduating college seniors find themselves in an unstable job market where their futures may not seem as bright as once promised. It is understandably frightening to face such a change. However, these moments are, in fact, opportunities or turning points where the decisions we make today can shape the future. It is important to embrace change and to make the hard choices necessary for a better future, for behind every success story is uncertainty, fear, and a challenge waiting to be met. >>Read full article
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Essentials Information
Essentials welcomes articles, ideas, and feedback from Association members throughout the year. Please contact Emily Perlow, 2010 Editor, or review the online submission guidelines for more information.
Essentials is a monthly educational e-newsletter provided to AFA members and subscribers. Member login is required to view articles. If you have misplaced your member number, please contact the Central Office.
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Association of Fraternity/Sorority Advisors | 9640 North Augusta Drive Suite 433 | Carmel, IN. 46032
Phone: (317) 876-1632 | Fax: (317) 876-3981
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