SAC Reflections

I had no idea what to expect as I boarded my flight to La Guardia Airport. I was headed to the Student Advisory Committee Summer Training, to meet twelve strangers from around the nation. Little did I know that these strangers alongside a few incredible supervisors would challenge me, guide me, transform my leadership and communication skills, and inspire me beyond belief.

Being a representative on the Student Advisory Committee has been a priceless experience to me. The things that I have learned and the relationships that I have formed have guided me and helped to prepare me for my future in the health care field. The lessons learned during my term are experiences that I could not have received anywhere else and in any other way.

I would not have had this experience if I were not encouraged to apply by my previous Region IV-W SAC. So, in writing this, I am hoping that all of you will consider turning in an application to be an SAC for your region. Regardless if you are elected, I am hoping that you will take initiative to lead and further the progress that BACCHUS peer educators are making.

Being elected as a member of the Student Advisory Committee is a unique honor. Those elected sit on a national board of health and accompanied by other accomplished student leaders. Each SAC serves as the liaison between your region’s network and BACCHUS Initiatives national staff. You are the voice of the students and must take the actions necessary to better your region. You will be responsible for constantly being in contact with all areas of your regional network and the national organization. You will also play a role in helping to plan General Assembly. As this conference is for the students, the SAC’s input is imperative and highly valued by your NASPA supervisors. Beyond the basic duties of being a member, your time as a representative is what you make it! Take initiative, communicate with your region, and let their needs tailor your duties. In the end, the goal is to improve the efforts of peer education in your area, and to inspire and motivate a new generation of peer educators before your term comes to a close.

My experience as a Student Advisory Committee Representative is something that I will always remember. I got the opportunity to travel to new places, create new professional and personal relationships, and develop my skills as a health care advocate. The skills acquired and developed during my time as a member of the SAC serve as tools that I will carry with and utilize throughout my future profession in the health care field.

If you are looking for a new challenge outside of your comfort zone, I suggest you begin your application today! The BACCHUS Initiatives of NASPA needs student leaders like you to continue the evolution and innovation of peer education. If you are truly passionate about prevention education, now is the time to make your mark. 

More information about the SAC Application and election procedures can be found here.