Getting Involved in College!

Though classes, papers, and exams are major components of the college experience, there is far more to college than the classroom!  Getting involved in college is a great way to enhance your experience, and hopefully your life as a young adult! 

Getting involved is great for a number of different reasons, including the following:*

1. It allows students to become connected to their school: Colleges are full of resources, but the responsibility is on the student to seek them out. Being involved can help you to do that!

2. It helps build community: Since students are sometimes leaving family and their friends behind, getting involved helps them discover new friends with similar interests and build a community.

3. It allows you to discover your passions and strengths: These will follow you all through life and helps you discover your likes and dislikes.

4. It's a résumé builder: Freshman year is not too soon to begin thinking about positioning yourself for future employment, and getting involved and gaining leadership are great ways to build up your experience!

5. Sometimes, busier kids do better in all areas: This will vary a lot by the student, of course, but more free time does not always equal better grades. Being involved will require some organization and time management on the part of the student—and that's a good thing J

I would urge you to get involved and do it often!  It expands your social, educational, and professional horizons.  You might meet your best friend, discover your new passion, or land your dream job through a connection or contact you made in a club, fraternity/sorority, or committee you joined.  Below are some different types of organizations that you may consider:

                                   ·        Student Government
                                   ·         Honor societies
                                   ·         Academic clubs
                                   ·         Religious clubs
                                   ·         Committees (Homecoming, Academic Planning)
                                   ·         Athletic clubs (competitive, intermural, club)
                                   ·         Greek life (fraternities, sororities)

No matter what you decide to do, have fun with it!  Try and expose yourself to something outside of your comfort zone, meet new people, and have a wonderful time!

 

*adapted from US News & World Report