Getting started
As a support system for a student organization, an advisor can play an important role in the organization’s success by serving as an educator, coach, supporter, and mentor to the organization’s executive board and membership. Advisors also create opportunities for students to connect with eligible faculty and staff outside of the classroom around shared interests, leadership experiences, and skill development.
Effective with the updated student organization advisor policy, advisors are optional for student groups classified as General Registered Student Organizations. Advisors remain required for University Sponsored Student Organizations. General student groups may still choose to identify an eligible advisor if they would benefit from additional guidance, mentorship, or support.
Eligibility
Student groups that choose or are required to have an advisor must identify an individual who meets the following criteria:
- A University of Florida full-time, salaried faculty or staff member
- Must be present the entire academic year (cannot be on extended leave for more than 30 days)
- Must complete required University trainings
- May advise an organization outside of field of study or discipline
- Upon invitation to serve or within registration cycles, successful completion of the Advisor Verification Form
Please Note: Graduate assistants, teaching assistants, OPS staff, some adjunct professors, non-professional staff, post-doctoral associates or fellows, courtesy appointments, and affiliates may not be eligible to serve as the advisor of record for a student organization. General student groups are not required to have an advisor, but any advisor listed for a student organization must meet university eligibility requirements.
Your Role as an Advisor
Each student organization has its own identity, is unique, and contributes to the university community in a variety of ways. When a student organization has an advisor, the advisor’s role is to guide, challenge, and support the students involved in their leadership, decision-making, and contributions to the university community.
Expectations
- Encourage networking, community building, and supportive behaviors
- Educate membership on appropriate university policies and campus resources
- Maintain regular contact with the student organization
- Attend educational opportunities and/or trainings provided to advisors
- Report behaviors that impact the community to the appropriate authority
Benefits
- Collaboration with students surrounding shared interests, topics, or experiences
- Demonstrate commitment to the advancement of the university
- Develop mentoring relationships outside of an academic setting
- Facilitate a student's growth and development of transferable skill sets
- Empower emerging leaders by challenging perspectives leading to a positive impact on the future
Advisor Verification Form
University Sponsored Student Organizations must maintain an eligible advisor and complete the Advisor Verification Form during applicable registration or renewal processes. General Registered Student Organizations are not required to have an advisor; however, if a general student group chooses to list an advisor, the advisor must meet eligibility requirements and complete the advisor verification process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Resources
Stay up to date on all the policies and university resources available to help your student organization(s) by clicking the button below.
Questions
Have questions? Reach out to our office by phone 352-392-1671 or by emailing studentengagement@ufsa.ufl.edu.