What would your group offer that students can't find already? Check existing organizations first; one might have room for your idea. If a new group or outside chapter makes more sense, talk with potential members about the work they'd actually share. Then check the campus process. Get answers about recognition, advisors, costs and any outside affiliation before making commitments. Enthusiasm helps, but you also need to know who will still be doing the work after the first meeting.
Talk it through
- Which need would this organization address that existing groups aren't meeting?
- Who will share the work after the first meeting?
- What do you need to check with both organizations before setting up an outside chapter?
Try this next
- Compare your idea with the current campus organization directory and speak with a related group.
- Write a short description of what the group would do, who might join and the work needed to keep it going.
- Ask the responsible campus office for the current recognition process and the questions still to resolve.