Undergraduate Student Organizations
The School of Information Studies has many student organizations that students can become involved with. Check out their Web sites to get an idea of what each organization is all about.
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School of Information Studies—Undergraduate Alliance (IST-UA)
The newest student organization within the school, IST-UA is committed to enhancing the iSchool's undergraduate student experience through meetings, guest speakers, and such events as an all-access tour of SU’s famous athletic facility, the Carrier Dome, and a behind-the-scenes look at the University’s wireless network, Air Orange. The organization's flat structure ensures that every member has leadership opportunities and equal voice in the group’s projects and activities.
- Black and Latino Information Studies Support (BLISTS)
BLISTS is a student-run organization that focuses on educating African American and Latino students, as well as other student populations, about information science and technology, providing computer literacy support, and building a corporate and alumni network. Contact faculty advisor Martha Garcia-Murillo for more information.
- iOrange Toastmasters Club
iOrange is the iSchool's Toastmasters Club which is dedicated to assist and improve the communication and leadership skills of its iSchool members. The mission of a Toastmasters Club is to provide a mutually supportive and positive learning environment in which every member has the opportunity to develop communication and leadership skills, which in turn foster self confidence and personal growth. iOrange conducts regular weekly meetings and activities, and encourages its members to participate in district level conferences and competitions.
- Women in Information Technology (WIT)
With the increase of women in the field of technology, women in the School of Information Studies recognize the need to establish an organization to capitalize on the presence and strength of women in the information management field. The goals of the organization include raising awareness of women in the field by hosting school-based events such as an alumni panel, assisting with the recruitment of women into the Bachelor of Science in information management and technology program, and offering career exploration opportunities. Membership is open to School of Information Studies women of all levels. Contact staff advisor Barbara Settel for more information.
- BOOST Initiative
The Bolstering Original Opportunities & Self through Technology (BOOST) Initiative is run by a group of iSchool students in collaboration with the Women's Opportunity Center of Syracuse. BOOST focuses on teaching basic technology skills and accounting software, and on encouraging participants to to identify and understand business opportunities that will enable them to start a home business that matches their skills and interests. Contact faculty advisor Susan Dischiave for more information.
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Peer Advisors
Peer advisors are sophomores, juniors and seniors in the School of Information Studies who are trained in academic counseling by the undergraduate academic counselors. Peer advisors are trained in issues related to academic counseling, and have a wide knowledge of the campus resources available to students, including the Career Center, Office of Disability Services, Financial Aid, Housing, and the Learning Resource Center, to name a few. Contact staff advisor Elaine Morgan for more information.
Peer advisors assist first-year students in making the transition from high school to Syracuse University by sharing their strategies for survival and knowledge of campus. They also are trained to assist them in learning to use MySlice, iLMS, and by answering questions about degree requirements, university procedures, academic integrity, and academic support services. During the academic year, peer advisors maintain regular office hours in the Peer Advisor Office.
- IT Exponent
a platform to create a peer network and continuously enhances a knowledge-base regarding various IT issues and emerging technologies. It also enables students to get firsthand advice about internships and full-time jobs from current and former iSchool students through a student-developed web site.