I speak from experience when I say that getting out of bed each morning and make myself look presentable, roll through the workday with a smile on my face, then use the evening to attend NKU classes and engage in homework seems like the most a person can put on their plate. I was not in the market to join a student organization. Especially, as I am an (old) working adult and was not sure the benefits would outweigh the burden of adding one more task. However, as surprises often happen, when accepting the position as the Graduate Assistant for the MPA Program, I became emersed in our student organization, PASS, and I love it! I want to take time to share the experience with other students, and dispel any rumors that being a member is a time-consuming commitment, but a flexible opportunity to engage, network, and give back to the community.
If you are not familiar with the Public Administration Student Society (PASS), it is open to any MPA students. The organization was created with the specific goal of enhancing the student experience. The organization leads and takes part in community service events, hosts social gatherings for students to build relationships, and engages with alum creating outstanding networking opportunities. Of course, one benefit is that this will look good on a resume showing leadership and commitment to service. However, it is time to be selfish and think about how your time commitment will bring some immediate gratification.
I began my journey at NKU smack dab in the middle of the pandemic. The campus, and much of the world, being shut down. It was normal for my experience to be online and somewhat isolated. I was not even aware that this was a unique experience until I started leading PASS. As I was reaching out to recruit members, I found each time I connected with a new student; I felt a little more connected to the program and NKU as a whole. There is a mutual support that comes in connecting with those sharing an experience with you, and connecting through PASS has provided that.
Being a part of PASS also presents the opportunity to build some very specific skills. With a focus on service to others, helping to plan or take part in some organizations' events will provide hands on experience that may not otherwise be available. It is real time field knowledge, while networking with others, what else can I say? There really isn't a reason not to be a part of PASS!
I am aware of time restraints. The thought of adding one more commitment can sound and feel overwhelming. My advice is that joining a student organization is a commitment to yourself, not another task that must be completed. Give yourself this gift of learning more about public administration, others in the program, and yourself.
Click here to learn more about PASS
