Student Leader FAQ

An SWCS Student Chapter is a campus-wide, student-led organization affiliated with the Soil and Water Conservation Society that connects students with conservation education, leadership opportunities, and professional networks.

An Affiliate Organization is an existing student group that partners with SWCS while maintaining its own name, structure, and campus identity.

Any student interested in conservation, sustainability, natural resources, agriculture, environmental issues, community engagement, or related topics is welcome.

Most colleges and universities require a faculty or staff advisor. Advisors provide mentorship, continuity, and institutional support.

Complete the SWCS student forms to keep headquarters up to date. Contact SWCS at memberservices@swcs.org whenever your student leaders or advisor change so we can keep our records up to date and ensure the right people receive communications.

We ask each organization to:

• Complete the Primary Contact Form
• Host at least one conservation-focused activity each year
• Share photos and updates with SWCS
• Complete the End-of-Year Survey
• Help recruit and develop future leaders
   

Every campus is different. Some groups use traditional officer roles, while others use a shared leadership model. Choose the structure that works best for your organization.

That's okay. Student organizations naturally go through leadership transitions. SWCS can help you restart your group, recruit new leaders, and rebuild momentum. Reach out to us at memberservices@swcs.org with any questions.

Examples include:

• Guest speakers
• Professional development workshops
• Networking events
• Community service projects
• Field trips
• Research presentations
• Conservation awareness campaigns
• Volunteer activities

There is no required number. We encourage organizations to focus on meaningful activities that fit their capacity and interests.

Yes. SWCS provides planning resources, event ideas, promotional support, and staff guidance.

Absolutely. Partnerships are a great way to reach new students and create larger, more impactful events.

We recommend students join SWCS as official members to get full access to resources and opportunities.

Student members receive access to:

• Professional networking opportunities
• Career resources and internship opportunities
• Educational webinars
• Member communities
• Scholarships 
• Conference discounts

Students can participate in:

• SWCS webinars and events
• The Emerging Leaders Program (after graduation)
• Annual conference activities
• Committees and volunteer opportunities
• Professional networking events

Affiliated organizations may be eligible for annual support funds and other opportunities announced throughout the year.

SWCS provides:

• Event planning templates
• Recruitment tools
• Leadership resources
• Governance guidance
• Promotional materials
• Staff support

Yes. Affiliated organizations may use approved SWCS branding in accordance with Society guidelines.

This form allows SWCS staff to send leadership news and resources to your choice of student leaders and advisors throughout the year. It also indicates where we can send a swag package of SWCS branded items for your group’s use.

Photos and stories help us recognize student accomplishments, share ideas across chapters, and showcase the impact of student-led conservation efforts.

The survey helps SWCS understand your activities, improve support, celebrate accomplishments, and process any eligible reimbursements or benefits. It also allows us to stay connected with your group for the next school year.

Advisors provide mentorship, institutional knowledge, and continuity while allowing students to lead the organization.

The best advisors support and guide student leaders without managing the organization themselves.

Advisors help students develop leadership skills, build professional connections, engage with conservation issues, and create meaningful experiences outside the classroom.