Adviser Orientation
All faculty/staff advisers must complete an orientation each RSO period, prior to your student organization being fully recognized. One period is considered May 1st - April 30th each year. These dates align with the California State University (CSU) student organization recognition period, as outlined in Executive Order 1068.
Any new policy updates will be posted on the SLL website. Currently, there is an in-person and online version of the orientation. Advisers may choose which orientation works best for them.
Adviser In-Person Orientation (3 Period Eligibility)
Advisers who complete the in-person training will be eligible to advise a student organization for a maximum of three recognition periods. Advisers do not have to attend a required RSO training session during this three period time frame. SLL will send all updates to Advisers through email and our Campus Life Weekly Newsletter. Advisers will need to attend an in-person training to renew their eligibility after three periods.
In-person Adviser Orientation dates will be available Fall 2022. Please register for the orientation on the University Events Calendar at events.sdsu.edu.
Adviser Online Orientation (1 Period Eligibility)
Please visit this link to complete the online Adviser Orientation for the 2022-2023 Academic Year:
Adviser handouts
- Adviser Self Evaluation Check List (PDF)
- Role of the Adviser Form (MS Word)
- Month to Month Organization Checklist (MS Word)
- Student Organization Program Report (MS Word)
Overview of role and responsibilities
The adviser:
- Must attend a mandatory adviser orientation.
- Serves as an adviser and guide.
- Is aware of the policies and procedures for student organizations contained in the handbook and knows university policy affecting such groups; also ensures that the student leaders of the organization are informed of these policies.
- Is aware of their student organization activities and programs and provides signature authority on event approval forms.
- Encourages leadership development of organization’s members and informs them of various leadership opportunities across campus.
- Assists with organizational continuity and officer transition.
- Alerts student leaders of possible organizational problems and encourages them to explore a variety of strategies to solve such problems.
- Serves, where possible, as a liaison with faculty, staff, and the outside community.
- Encourages student leaders to critically examine the organization's structure and activities to ensure compliance with university regulations and to avoid any liability.
- Holds an annual meeting with the officers and members of the organization to clearly define the advisor’s role.
- Must attend controversial or risky programs, activities, or meetings.