February 3, 2020 by Adam Fogel

Welcome to Spring Membership Month, AIAS! This year’s theme is Amplify. During #AIASmem20, the national office will be focusing on how WE can AMPLIFY OUR:_______. This semester’s theme is focusing on OUR membership benefits at the national level. Week one is all about Leadership! 

“So Adam, how can AIAS help me grow as a leader?” 

Well I’m glad you asked! Have you ever heard of a little conference called Grassroots? It’s located in the city of our National Headquarters: Washington, D.C. Every July, our chapter leaders gather from all over the country and the world in D.C. to learn what it takes to run a Chapter, lead an FBD Program, and learn a thing or two about Finances. But it’s so much more than that! Grassroots is the kickoff of the year where our new Board of Directors is inducted! We get to hear from some amazing keynote speakers, visit local architecture firms, and go on a monuments tour with the Past President. 

“That sounds cool Adam, but what if I don’t hold a leadership position at my local chapter?” 

Not to worry! The conference is open to any and all members of the AIAS. Heck, we even have a non-member registration fee! The knowledge you gain at Grassroots applies to so much more than running an AIAS Chapter. You’ll get some soft skill tips like how have better communication, what it takes to be part of a successful team, and, last but not least, networking skills! Traveling to D.C. to meet future architects and building lifelong relationships is priceless!

“Grassroots sounds amazing! I can’t wait to attend but is that the only Leadership benefit the AIAS has?”

Leadership is more than “being in charge” of something. In fact, I’d argue it’s quite the opposite. Leadership is a lifestyle and good leadership leads to serving others. Serving others requires listening to what they have to say. A good leader is able to translate that vision into reality. Have you noticed how your peers that are involved in AIAS seem to good listeners? They probably manage time a little better than the average student? Have you ever wondered why that might be the case? Well I can tell you that it’s because of their involvement in the AIAS. They are passionate about the mission and vision of the organization and that passion bleeds into every part of their lives. Being in the AIAS can teach you how to stand up for something you care about like Studio Culture. You don’t have to be a leader in your local chapter to stand up for yourself and others around you and by joining the AIAS, you have the voices of thousands of fellow architecture students on your side! Only together can we empower voices, ideas, and actions for the future; for OUR future! 

Are you ready to Amplify Our: Voice, Ideas, and Actions? Then join the AIAS today and begin building your leadership!