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Leaders of student government and campus political groups are often open to meeting with other students interested in politics or issue advocacy , and particularly with leaders of other student groups ( like Hillel ). If you are considering advocating that your student government adopt a position on an issue , it is usually worth having informal preliminary conversations with student leaders . And if you are seeking action by the university administration , other student leaders , and particularly student government leaders , can help you navigate the process and serve as advocates .
PROFESSORS
Most of your professors will have office hours that they have set aside for students . Visit your professors during those times to discuss your course materials or seek their advice on your academic career . Professors whom you know well will be more likely to offer advice , and potentially advocate on your behalf , if controversies related to Israel or other Jewish issues emerge .
You may also want to contact the Academic Engagement Network (“ AEN ”) to ask about professors on your campus who have identified themselves as pro-Israel . These professors have already indicated their interest in mentoring students and combating the BDS movement in academia .
DEANS AND ADMINISTRATIVE PERSONNEL
While the deans or other administrative personnel at your school may not have official office hours , you can always ask to make an appointment to speak with them . At some colleges or universities , deans and other administrative personnel conduct town hall meetings or speak at events on campus . Attend these events and approach them afterwards to speak to them about what they discussed or ask them to grab a cup of coffee at another time . Especially in the era of Zoom , faculty and deans are often more accessible than ever .