Join us for a dynamic conversation with graduate students preparing to enter the field of student affairs. This panel highlights the voices of emerging professionals as they share their experiences in graduate school, insights from assistantships and internships, and their perspectives on navigating the transition from student to practitioner. Panelists will discuss the opportunities, challenges, and hopes they see for the future of the profession, offering advice for fellow graduate students and valuable takeaways for current professionals who mentor and support them.

Whether you are a graduate student, a new professional, or a seasoned practitioner, this event provides an opportunity to celebrate the next generation of student affairs leaders and engage in dialogue about how we can collectively strengthen the pipeline into the profession.

Learning Outcomes

•  Identify the opportunities and challenges graduate students face as they transition into the student affairs profession.
• Reflect on how current professionals can better support, mentor, and engage emerging leaders in the field.
• Gain insight into the perspectives, motivations, and aspirations of graduate students entering student affairs.
• Explore strategies graduate students use to navigate graduate school, assistantships, and professional identity development.
• Recognize the importance of creating inclusive and supportive professional pathways for the next generation of student affairs practitioners.