Being involved with community service and extracurricular activities on campus is impressive to prospective employers. The new student development transcripts are intended to complement students' résumés by detailing their campus and community involvement, said Kent Sampson, OSU director of campus life. 

He said employers are excited about the new program. "When asked if these transcripts would be useful to them, they all strongly agreed it would," Sampson said. "Student development transcripts give students a better way to tell their story."

This new program is expected to support a résumé, not build it. This official university document will, however, validate extracurricular participation. Information on the transcript will include the type of organization, the skills level scale, and the number of hours of participation per week. 

There is no fee required to create a student development file, but a $1 shipping and handling fee is charged if you request the transcript be mailed. 

The transcript program can be started at any time in a student's college career, but they are encouraged to start as early as possible. This will help maintain accuracy of total involvement. Transcripts can be updated and edited at any time. 

Wesley Holley, assistant dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, said the new student development transcript program is a good way for students to show diversity. 

"It shows that students can be recognized for their academic accomplishments, but also for being a participant, not only a listener," said Holley.

Students are excited about this new program and made the request for this type of transcript documentation themselves. They want a "stamp of approval" from the university recognizing them for their leadership and participation outside the classroom. 

Agricultural economics senior Kelly Thompson said she plans to sign up for the program. 

"I think my activity transcript will be beneficial as I apply for jobs," said Thompson. "Every employer will know I'm dedicated to my academic career while still being extremely involved on campus."

Thompson is currently serving on the Homecoming Steering Executive Committee, Student Alumni Board and Mortar Board. She is a member of Delta Delta Delta, Alpha Zeta and Beta Alpha Psi. Thompson also serves as a community service volunteer.

This new program is expected to be a huge success. Sampson said he hopes for 10 percent of OSU students to be using the program by spring 1999. He encourages everyone on campus, freshmen to seniors, to take advantage of this special opportunity.

Students can apply for the student development transcript in 060 Student Union.

They can use university computers to create the document. The transcripts are updated as requested by students. University advisers help validate the students' involvement by reviewing individual transcripts and confirming them. 

It is important for new students to realize that being involved from the first day is important. Holley tries to stress this in the CASNR.

"I encourage new students to do three things," Holley said. "Prepare themselves to ensure academic success, carefully consider being strong participants, and make contributions to the community. These things will look great on the new transcript and help with personal development as well."

By Holley Brown

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