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3. Start a student chapter that would make STC more accessible to students
and make the students feel more enfranchised to the profession of technical
communciation.
Do start the student chapter--or start your own student organization without the STC umbrella (here in the Twin Cities, MN there's RASTEC [rhetoric and scientific something something]). But once you have started the chapter/club, avoid using it as a maverick organization. Instead, get the ball rolling, and once professionals recognize your success and enthusiasm, the local STC chapter may show more interest. Then build events in cooperation with the local chapter. I think this is a significant improvement over an "it's our ball and we're going home" approach. It may take a few years, but by the time you have defended your diss, the undergrads left behind will benefit from your efforts. I have seen two successful models of student chapters cooperating with local "professional" chapters and would be happy to put you in contact with members if you write me off list.
pjs
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