Student Chapters

The New York State Recreation and Park Society recognizes the importance of fostering students as they prepare to enter the park, recreation and leisure profession. This is why we invite park, recreation, and leisure service clubs at accrediated New York State colleges and universities to join the society as a Student Chapter. As a part of a Student Chapter, students will have the opportunity to:

• Network with recreation and leisure professionals (and possible future employers);

• Gain leadership skills with the chance to serve as the representative on NY Regional Affiliate board or Student Relations Committee;

• Gain access to resources geared towards students, including a bi-annual enewsletter (NYSRPS on Campus), searchable job board on the new NYSRPS web site, and online resource library; along with the materials professional members receive (The Voice, Inside NYSRPS, and monthly eNewsletter);

• Become a Certified Recreation and Park Professional upon graduation and successful completion of the exam based on the new NRPA and the National Certification Board standards, which take effect January 1, 2008 (for additional details visit NRPA’s web site);

• Meet and discuss with peers from other New York State colleges online in student based forums and blogs on our networking web site (www.nysprs.ning.org), on MySpace (www.myspace/nysrps), along with access to a our student list serve;

• Participate in Regional and State professional society events, including the Annual Conference and Business Expo which has events and sessions specifically for student;

• Test their skills and knowledge against other student chapters in the Annual Park and Rec Tournament held during the Annual Conference (starting in 2009);

• Win the coveted Outstanding Student Chapter Award (starting in 2009); and,

• Win scholarships to assist with their education.