Roughly four years ago, I was asked to step into the role of treasurer of our Phi Kappa Phi Chapter. I had been inducted as a staff member two years earlier, and I had been looking for an opportunity to get involved in another group on campus. There are many ways someone can be involved in a campus organization, and the reasons to participate in this way are varied for each person. Here are my reasons:

1. Gain Valuable Leadership Experience

By getting involved with an executive committee of an organization, I have been provided numerous opportunities for leadership experiences. I have had to take the initiative on several tasks involving our finances, and participate in special events. These leadership skills are looked upon favorably by employers. 

 

2. Learn Hands-on Experience

Having the duties of treasurer is new for me; I have had to learn a new computer software and understand endowments and audits. These new experiences were intimidating at first, but I value the opportunity to do something I don’t do in my job or in other committees.  

 

3. Taking Responsibility

The executive board relies on me to pay bills, provide monthly reports of our financial picture, and suggest an annual budget. By being accountable to myself and others, I have gained a great sense of responsibility and professionalism within my work.

 

4. Being a Part of a Community

All of us on the executive committee serve voluntarily, and I have the pleasure of working with wonderful staff, faculty and students from UMBC and UMB while serving on this board. I get to work with people I don’t usually see in my job, and I learn valuable skills from these peers. This role also allows me to connect with others, and we have the common goal of having a successful PKP chapter grow and move forward.

 

Carrie Sauter