Chapter Development Through the Implementation of a Student Leadership Intern Position

Student internship in the Delta Xi chapter of Sigma Theta Tau (STTI) addresses goals of developing member leadership and service. The position is open to undergraduate or graduate students who are members of Delta Xi. Applicants are selected by the Chapter Board of Directors based on submission of an essay, curriculum vitae, and two letters of reference. For the 2015-2016 academic year, Delta Xi selected two Student Leadership Interns to work as a pair to complete the responsibilities of an student intern. Interns receive a $500 scholarship in addition to costs associated with attendance at the STTI Biennial Convention or Leadership Institute. Students Interns can also participate in chapter activites by asssisting committes in planning events such as Induction. Interns actively participate in chapter activities, especially those related to member recruitment, attend board meetings, and implement a project that serves to further the chapter’s goals. Activities of the 2015-16 student interns included planning and providing informational sessions for prospective members, as well as developing and implementing a project that aligned with the goals of STTI. This year's interns project was to sponsor a Nursing Mobile Library through the International Council of Nurses. Each library is filled with new nursing books send to nurses and nursing students working in rural clinics, health centers, and refugee camps in Africa with the goal of assisting the chapter to meet their global initative. Student Interns have the ability to choose their own project and is then assisted by the executive board in the implementation. The outcome has been an increase in the number of student members inducted in the chapter and hosted multiple membership events focusing on students’ interests. In conclusion, student STTI interns serve a major role in developing a connection with the student population and encouraging professional development of student members in STTI.