An Innovative Idea to Improve Undergraduate Participation in Your Chapter

Monday, 18 November 2019

Kady L. Martini, DNP, RN, NEA-BC
College of Nursing, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA

The Sigma Theta Tau International Chapter implemented a student internship program and in efforts to increase undergraduate student involvement, an undergraduate student advisory board. The goals of this undergraduate student advisory board was to support current elected board members and give undergraduate students a structured avenue to become involved, as well as leadership opportunities.

The undergraduate student advisory board mimics the elected board of the Epsilon chapter. The undergraduate student advisory board is managed by the undergraduate student intern, he/she acts as "President". The intern then compiles the group of students interested in serving on the undergraduate student advisory board. This group of students looks at each individuals strengths/weaknesses, etc. then they determine, based on time requirements and skills, which position each person will serve in. Each undergraduate student then has direct mentorship from the elected board member in that position. The student learn the direct benefits of participating and serving on a board as a student. This allows the student to gain leadership qualities desired from stakeholders looking to hire students post graduation.

The undergraduate student advisory board focuses time and attention on issues the board is dealing with including, but not limited to: 1) recruitment and retention of undergraduate students; 2) exploration of innovative ideas and activities for engagement (these are focused in the categories of philanthropy, scholarship, and leadership); 3) providing assistance developing, advertising, and participating in chapter events.

The elected board members provide students with guidance, networking opportunities, personal relationships and professional advice. Elected board members help students to see the value of service in the form of the elected board position and involvement in a professional organization.

The positive relationships built through this program have been beneficial for the students and the Epsilon board alike. There has been increased involvement and participation from undergraduate students as a result of this program.