Starting a New
Engineering Student Organization

So, if you don’t see an organization that meets your needs within the College of Engineering (CoE), then you may want to start a new student group. To ensure that you receive the benefits associated with becoming a registered student organization like free room reservations in the Engineering Centers Building (ECB), access to University fleet vehicles and a Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) account and web site, then here is what to do:

Step 1: Search the UW-Madison Student Organization Directory at http://cfli.wisc.edu/sooform/search/default.asp to see if the organization exists outside of the College of Engineering. There are over 700 student organizations on campus beyond the 50+ that are registered with the SLC. You may find that a group outside of the college peaks your interest and that’s okay! We want you to get involved — period. If after searching the directory, you still don’t find what you are looking for, then proceed to Step 2:

Step 2: Identify at least three other UW students who are enrolled at least half time and are interested in starting this organization with you. You must be able to provide contact names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses for four students in order to start the registration process on campus.

Step 3: Find an advisor. While the university does not require that every student organization have an advisor on campus, all CoE student organizations must have an advisor affiliated with the College. Your advisor can be a professor, teaching assistant or student services staff member. If your group is going to be closely related to a particular department, then a member of that department is your best choice. Otherwise, try to find a faculty or staff member who is 1) interested in working with your group and 2) interested in the goals of your group.

Step 4: Apply to register with the Center for Leadership and Involvement (CfLI) on campus. Make sure your group meets all of the requirements and understands the responsibilities as outlined on the web site before applying.

Step 5: To be recognized by the College of Engineering (and qualify for Polygon funding opportunities), then you’ll also need to register with the Student Leadership Center. Once you’ve completed the SLC registration form, your officers will be invited to a mandatory new student leader orientation session. Once you’ve all attended the session, its official!

You can find more information on how to get started in the SLC Student Organization Handbook or the CfLI Handbook