The first piece of advice I got when I was elected this position was “As social events coordinator you are the first e-board member to start working, and you will be the last to finish”. This can come as daunting, but I had to remember that I have a support team to help me with everything. That was my committee, the E-board, and the senate at large. I had to learn to never be afraid to ask for help, and never be afraid to say that you do not know what you are doing. The secret about this position is that everyone else knows what they are doing but you. This is because the events you plan on campus happen annually, so though the offices on campus know what to expect, since this might be your first year as social events coordinator you do not know what to expect. I had to remember to not let this come as a shock, and just think outside the box, and ask questions.
My job was to plan Leadership weekend, and then the All-University Banquet, nothing else is to be expected out of the position. Now saying that I also planned 2 blood drives, some novelties, the Week of Kindness, events like family fun day, and more. This has been added to the position over the years, so not only are you starting early, you are also constantly working towards something each month.
To be a successful social events coordinator you need to be organized. Have a calendar out and have every date already planned out within the first weeks of the Fall semester. Since the events occur annually look back at past dates to do this. In the long run this will help you immensely. Create a separate folder within your email to save all the emails you get social events related because believe me they will stack up. Also try and be involved in as many clubs as possible because it is with their help that you will get the most out of the events you plan. Be ready to come up with ideas, and be innovated with the resources you have. Learn how to make table flyers, posters, and where the print shop is on campus. Make sure you know how to put a funding request in, and how to put in a petty cash one too. Learn how to send a formal email, and never delete anything. Remember there are going to be people here to help you through this. Take advantage of your committee to do a lot of the planning and idea storming.
At the end of the day being social events coordinator is worth it. You get to reach out to the FSU community at large through the events you plan, and this broadens your horizon on just how much you can help people.
As I leave this position, the last piece of advice I leave is to enjoy what you do. Take pride in the events you hold, and never be afraid to reach for the stars. This position’s work load is dependent on how much work you put into it. That is why planning ahead will always allow for your success in the future.
Best,
Social Events Coordinator
Jack Capello