A New Chapter

Starting an NEA Student chapter takes hard work and dedication. But with a little motivation and guidance, any student can do it.

Fortunately, Murphy had two great resources to fill her in on the benefits of joining: her mother, a paraeducator, serves as president of her local Association, while her father works as an attorney for the Michigan Education Association (MEA). Once she started talking shop with her folks, Murphy knew her college needed a chapter of the Student Michigan Education Association (SMEA). So, she contacted MEA's Student Program organizer, along with students who chaired other SMEA chapters, to learn the basics of getting started.

"They were all very helpful," says Murphy. "They gave me ideas, handouts, and other information on getting things started. It was slow to take off, but after the students found out what kind of benefits they get from SMEA, such as professional development, leadership training, and much more, they became excited and were happy to join. I also recruited a great faculty advisor who really believes in this organization."

Murphy launched the Alma College chapter in the fall of 2003. Since then, its membership has grown to 25 students.

Since founding the chapter, she has recruited 25 members.

"There are four essentials to getting a chapter going," says Farina. "The first is enthusiasm. You have to believe in what you're doing and in education. Second is friendship. Use your friendships to get people together who share the same goals. Third is getting an active faculty advisor who will give you the support you need. Finally, continuity. You must train the next generation of leaders before you leave school."

Farina also advises new leaders to keep their expectations manageable.

"All your goals need to be tangible ones," she says. "Never set out to bring in 50 members if 20 are more realistic. Doing what's realistic is a success."

University students aren't the only ones who benefit from joining the Association. Students at two-year colleges should form their own chapters as well, says Dennis Carpenter, a faculty member in the University of Wisconsin community college system.

"You start building your portfolio the day you enter school, and if you have the chance to take on projects or leadership roles in a student Association at a two-year school, it helps your chances of being accepted at the four-year school of your choice," says Carpenter, who advises the Student chapters at the University of Wisconsin's Baraboo and Rock County campuses.

Students attending technical colleges also gain by forming their own Student chapters, even if they don't plan to teach, says Sandra Jackson, state Student organizer for the Alabama Education Association (AEA). Last year, students started an AEA Student chapter at Bessemer State Technical College, she says. "This kind of chapter is unique because many of the members plan to become ESPs rather than teachers. Of course, they'll face many of the same issues in education, so the Association is every bit as important to them."

Regardless of where they attend school, students need to stay motivated as their chapter evolves step by step.

"Don't think you can't succeed," says Farina. "Even if you're working alone at first, others will join. And it's amazing what even a small group can accomplish."

And the Winner Is . . .

Think your Student chapter is the best in the nation? Then prove it.

Apply for a Student Program award. Each summer, the NEA Student Program recognizes outstanding state programs, local chapters, state and local student leaders, state organizers, and local chapter advisors during the honors dinner at the Student Leadership Conference. Student chapters also receive awards for most outstanding CLASS project, local or state newsletter, and local Web site. Chapters must submit their nominations, applications, and supporting materials by April 15.

—Matt Simon

Do It by the Book

Looking for more tips on starting your own campus chapter? Then check out the Handbook for Local Leaders. This includes ideas for recruiting new members, conducting effective meetings, creating a constitution, and developing successful chapter programs. It also includes a sample meeting agenda and letter of welcome for new students.