This study explores the forces that influence role construction and enactment through the experiences of two mid-level managers in student affairs at Paradox University, a large, public, research university. To guide this interpretive study of roles, Symbolic Interactionism was used. Qualitative methods of interview, observation and document review were used to gather data for this descriptive, exploratory study. The data revealed the complexity of the role-making, role-taking process and highlighted the internal and external forces that influence role shaping and enactment. Family and educational experiences, experience with management positions, and professional ambition were identified as among the internal forces that influence role construction. External forces were categorized as proximate and distant, and included perceived clarity of organizational mission, experiences with predecessors, and managerial expectations. Directions for further research and practice were suggested that would help contribute to a further understanding of higher education organizations, and the construction of managerial roles
