Being a new college student can be incredibly overwhelming, especially if you’re out of state or haven’t found your social group yet. That’s why it’s usually helpful to find a student club or organization that aligns with your interests because you’ll find other students you can relate to and befriend. Here’s how you can get involved on campus and make the most of your college experience.
Why Get Involved?
Before we dive into the how, let’s talk about the why. First, getting involved with campus life has a positive direct impact on academic performance and mental health.
Next, going through college alone can be an incredibly lonely and difficult experience. Finding like-minded students is a great way to boost your emotional health and make friends.
Lastly, getting involved in different clubs and organizations is an excellent way to build valuable, job-ready experiences to add to your resume. Many businesses want to see that you’re someone who can take the initiative to strike out on your own and participate in events that matter to you and campus organizations go a long way to illustrate that.
Where to Start
The first step to getting involved on campus is to do some research. Most universities have an online database of available, university-sanctioned organizations. Similarly, you could talk with your advisors to find a great place to start as well.
Make a list of clubs and orgs that appeal to you, look at the meeting schedules and expected responsibilities, and ensure they don’t clash with your class schedule. Once you have your choices reach out to the appropriate individuals in the club and share your interest in the org with them.
How to Stay Involved
Once you’ve found a few clubs or organizations that you’re interested in, it’s important to stay involved. It’s unfortunately a tale as old as time, a student will join a club, won’t participate, and then ghost the organization without a word.
Ensure you’re regularly attending meetings, participating in events, and getting to know the other members. Consider taking on a leadership role, such as becoming a club officer or committee chair. This can help you build your leadership skills and make a bigger impact on campus.
Alternatively, if you find that the club isn’t what you initially wanted be sure to communicate this to the organization. Thank them for their time and let them know you’re searching for other opportunities.
Additional Tips
Here are a few additional tips for getting involved on campus:
- Don’t be afraid to try new things. College is a time to explore and step outside your comfort zone.
- Be open to meeting new people. You never know who you might connect with.
- Attend campus events, such as concerts, lectures, and sports games. These can be a great way to meet new people and have fun.
The Wrap-Up
Getting involved on campus is an important part of the college experience. It can help you make friends, develop new skills, and feel more connected to your school and community. By doing some research, attending meetings, and staying involved, you can make the most of your time on campus and have a great college experience.
Looking for more specific, personalized information on getting involved? Our AI tutor, Ace, can tackle any variety of questions and can provide you with advice tailored to your needs. Head on over and ask Ace today (also tell them we said hi <3).
