Every year, hundreds of student leaders and advisors attend their first ASGA conference. You’re in good company. This page explains what to expect, who should attend, how to choose the right event, and how to get the most from your experience.
ASGA conferences are built for anyone involved in student government — whether you’re brand new or returning for your fifth year. If any of the following describe you, you belong here.
ASGA conferences aren’t passive sit-and-listen events. They’re engaging, interactive, and fast-paced — designed to equip you with tools you can use the moment you get back to campus.
Officers & Members Learn:
- Setting realistic goals on attainable projects
- Boosting awareness of SG among students
- Increasing election participation
- Making tangible improvements in multiple areas
- Running more effective meetings
- Building credibility with administrators
Advisors Learn:
- Governance best practices
- How to assess your SG’s effectiveness
- National norms and standards
- Strategies to increase involvement
- Advising strategies that work
- Strengthen the advisor-student partnership
| If You Are… | Best Event | Learn More |
|---|---|---|
| Newly elected officer or member | New Officers & Members Conference | asgaofficers.com |
| Advisor | Advisors Conference | asgaadvisors.com |
| Leaders ready for more, interested in advocacy, wanting to immerse in SGA |
National SG Summit, Washington, DC | asgadc.com |
| Refresh, get back on the right path | Fall Summit (Orlando), Spring Summit (New York) | asgafallsummit.com |
| Need affordable, accessible training | Virtual Conferences | asgaconferences.com/virtual |
| Looking to a one-day trip | Chicago, LA, New Orleans, Boston | Saturday Conferences |
Common First-Timer Questions
Will I know anyone?
Probably not. Most first-time attendees arrive knowing nobody, and leave with a network of peers from across the country. That’s part of what makes ASGA valuable.
Can I come alone?
Absolutely. Many students and advisors attend solo and find the experience just as rewarding. ASGA conferences are designed to be welcoming from the moment you walk in.
Can we bring multiple students?
Yes, and we encourage it. Schools that send larger groups tend to return with more ideas, better buy-in, and greater momentum for change.
Is this only for large universities?
Not at all. Every type of institution attends, including small colleges, large flagships, commuter campuses, and everything in between. The training is applicable regardless of your school’s size.
Is this useful for community colleges?
Yes. Community college students and advisors make up a significant portion of every ASGA conference, and sessions are directly relevant to the challenges of two-year institutions.
Are sessions practical or theoretical?
Practical. Attendees consistently say they leave with ideas, resources, and strategies they can implement the following week, not just general inspiration.
- Conference materials remain available. Reference sessions and resources throughout the year
- ASGA remains available as a resource. Questions, consulting, and guidance don’t stop when the event ends
- Networking relationships continue. The peers you meet become a lasting professional network
- Ideas can be implemented all year. The most successful attendees pick a few strong ideas and execute them well
