Elizabeth Purswani, Assistant Director for Campus Activities & Programming, Shippensburg University (since August 2011). Graduated with my Masters in Counseling: College Student Personnel in May 2011 from Shippensburg University.
Why student affairs: I choose student affairs because I wanted to make a difference in college students lives just how my mentors, advisors and supervisors did for me while I was in college. I loved the idea about being in the college environment for a career, and I enjoy the varying aspects of Student Affairs (from campus activities, admissions, residence life, alumni relations, etc.). I chose campus activities because I love programming and building an event from the ground up, and I love being able to work with student organizations who focuses on programming.
Previous Positions: In Graduate School I was a Residence Director at Shippensburg University.
Daily Routine: Working in campus activities, no one day is the same!!! A day normally consists of one on ones with students from Activities Program Board or SU Homecoming Committee, a program and other various meetings.
Favorite/challenging aspects of the job: One of my favorite parts of my job is advising the students that I work with! I love the mentorship relationships I have created over the years, and I have enjoyed guiding in the growth and development of past and current student leaders. Another favorite part of my job is being involved in professional associations. My students, co-workers and I attend the National Association for Campus Activities (NACA) Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference and National Convention each year- and it’s a wonderful time to not only book some quality acts for the upcoming school year, but it’s a time to network with agencies, performers, other campuses and students. I have been involved on a volunteer level since Fall 2011 with the Mid-Atlantic Festival Planning Committee and am currently on the Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference Planning Committee. The relationships I have made through volunteering have been amazing and plentiful!
On the other hand the most challenging aspect of my job is the unknown of how well a program will be received. Although I believe quality of programs over quantity of attendees- it’s amazing when we do get a packed room for a hypnotist, comedian or lecture!!
How I recharge: While at work I recharge by taking time to myself, whether it is closing my door to answer emails/do work or by grabbing a latte or tea with co-workers!
Favorite Student Development Theory: My favorite student development theory is Chickering—I truly believe that you must meet students where they are at by both challenging and supporting them as individuals. I have done this with many of my student leaders, and it’s been beneficial to their growth.
——-
