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There was a real mix of attitudes among collegians in my group when I helped out as an alum. A couple of years after I graduated, the president actually wrote to me asking for my help, which I happily gave (we're talking about attending all-night deliberations several nights in a row). Some members were borderline hostile, as though I were some kind of invader. But others were very grateful, seemed to weigh my advice heavily when deciding on cuts, etc., which made me think that the negative attitudes I encountered from some were not simply a result of my overreaching.
I was always a very active member, unusually devoted to the organization and possibly other members felt that I was judging them for their lower participation. I think some younger members, in particular, had been kind of waiting for their moment in the sun, and didn't want me still sticking a finger in the pie after I had graduated. At least, this is my theory.
When I was a collegian, I was fascinated by alums. Some former leaders had almost legendary status to me. But this may go along with the fact that I was head over heels in love with my group (which I imagine most GCers can understand!).
Ivy
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