State Workshop Tips and Tricks!

Hello Students!

Whether it's your first ever MIRSA State Workshop or you're a seasoned veteran, here are a few tips and reminders to have the best experience possible!

1. Dress to Impress!

Typical dress code for this conference is business casual. While this can mean a variety of things depending on your personal style, here are some basic ideas that will always work:

• Khakis and dress pants 
• School polo, jacket, and other apparel
• Nice sweater, collared shirt, or dress top
• Skirts, dresses, ties, and jackets are totally optional

The age-old adage is also true, "dress for the job you want, not the job you have." If you're hoping to make a great impression because you're looking for a GA position or maybe even a professional one, it doesn't hurt to dress a bit more formally.

There will also be a Professional Clothing Drive available where you can shop around to find some of these pieces for your own wardrobes! 

For dinner and socials, dress is considered casual so your favorite jeans and shirt combo will work here! Just keep in mind the ever-changing Michigan weather and pack appropriately!

But always make sure what you're wearing makes you feel comfortable and confident!

Still not entirely sure what to wear? Check out the WMU contingent below from last year's MIRSA conference for a better idea (or click this link to view other pictures from last year's conference!)

2. What do I need to bring? 

You definitely don't need to be dragging a large backpack along all day, but a few key items might be helpful to have on hand. A string bag or purse is often enough to carry things around in for the day. 

• small notebook/pen or tablet 
• Something to take notes with is always helpful! You can even take notes in the Guidebook app if you prefer! 
• Water bottle/snacks
• While there will definitely be lunch and dinner, it can make you more comfortable having a granola bar or water bottle on-hand since there is typically a pretty big gap between the two meals. 
• Resume and/or Business Cards
• It doesn't hurt to have them on hand, whether to pass them out or ask for a quick review for networking. 
• Open Mind 
• Be willing to get out of your comfort zone and meet other people. Attitude is everything and if you go into it with an open mind, you'll have more fun! Don't hesitate to ask any questions.
• Attention Span
• When sitting in a session or business meeting, please give the speakers your full attention! They worked really hard on their presentations and deserve the respect of being heard so please put the phones away and soak up the new ideas.

3. Penny Wars!

The Mitten is back! One of our main scholarship fundraisers is a penny war that occurs between the states to see who can collect the most money at the state conference. The state that wins gets a few extra scholarships to attend the Region III Student Lead On Conference in January! Last year Michigan won (WHOOP!) So help us keep our title as the Most Generous State in Region III! 

To make it interesting, we've had some rivalries and wagers on the line with our rival state to the south (ew). So please keep this Wolverine alumna from having to put on those dreadful shades of scarlet and gray at Lead On this year! Bring at least $1 and encourage your pro staff members to bring their wallets and #StuffTheMitten! 

PS: Don't see your school on the mitten? Bring me a pin or patch and I'll make sure to include it for future years!

4. What sessions should I attend? 

Attend any session that sounds interesting to you! There are sessions that are specifically labeled "Student Track" to help you decide! You can download the Guidebook app (available for free at the App Store or Google Play) now and search "2014 MIRSA State Workshop" to find the sessions that interest you!

Scan the QR code below to receive the Workshop Guidebook:

5. Elections

At the student business meeting this year, we will be holding Elections to vote on a new Executive Board. As the Student Rep, I get to vote as the student's voice. This means that all students will be able to vote, and the collective result will be the vote that will be submitted on the Students' behalf. 

So please make sure you read up on the candidate bios before coming to be an informed voter! You can read them here: Elections