Tips for a Successful Program

When planning a program for your campus community or organization use the list below to help insure that your event is a success. Most importantly, plan ahead and be creative.

Choosing a Topic

Have you asked your group what they're interested in learning? Try to assess what topics would be of interest to your audience. Be aware of academic schedules. Would a stress reduction workshop help relieve some of the stress surrounding exams? How about the seasons? Spring brings spring break. Would your group benefit from, or be interested in, a "safer break" presentation?

Once you've decided on a topic let us help you come up with some ideas for an innovative and interactive workshop. Remember great minds work together.

Speaking of working together: would your program be more successful if you combined efforts with another organization or residence hall?

Choosing a Date and Time

Am I planning far enough ahead? When possible be sure to make your program requests at least two weeks in advance.

Have you selected a date/time that is free from other activities or events that may impact your ability to get an audience? Avoid hosting programs when there are other significant activities on campus. Avoid the favorite TV nights. Consider campus and national themes such as National Alcohol Awareness Month, or World AIDS Day.

Note: Avoid perceived norms such as "Everyone is out drinking on Friday night so I won't schedule a program." It may be that your group finds itself looking for something to do on Friday nights that does not include a big party. Try a movie night using a movie that can lead to a post-film discussion about a relevant topic. Invite a campus faculty member or peer education group to help you discuss the topic.

Time to Advertise

Does your audience know that you are holding a program? Advertise! Clear, specific, upbeat posters or flyers should be posted where your audience will be sure to see them (in plenty of time to plan to come). Stress why the program is relevant to your audience, how they will benefit from attending and how much fun they will have.

Note: The University Health Center will provide you with posters to help advertise events that include University Health Center staff or peer educators.

Commitment From Your Group

A week or so prior to your event get individuals from your target audience to promise that they will attend. This is a more sophisticated version of dragging people from their rooms at the last minute, and in several cases has worked well.

Refreshments

Nothing fancy but snacks are always an incentive.