College students say there isn’t one single best way to get involved, but those we polled stressed that campus extra-curriculars are an important part of college life. When you get involved, you meet new people, grow in new ways, and learn new things about life that you’ll never learn in class.
- Go to the Clubs and Activities Fair. Almost every college hosts some kind of meet-and-greet event early in the fall where reps from every campus organization answer questions and recruit new members. It’s the best chance to do one-stop-shopping for even the most obscure campus clubs. Star Trek Club anyone?
- Ask around. Talk to residence staff, new friends and orientation leaders about the coolest campus events and activities.
- Be selectively strategic. Got your sights set on medical school? Join Doctors Without Borders or volunteer at the local hospital. Aiming for a career in politics? The Debating Club, Model United Nations or Student Government are right up your street. Participate in activities that will teach you career-worthy skills and look great on your C.V. but make sure you love them. One student advised, “The only way you will excel at them [extra-curriculars] and rise to leadership positions is if you enjoy them, and if you are passionate about them.”
- Create your own club. No Sudoku club on campus? Desperate to connect with other speakers of Esperanto? Why not start your own club? Go to the Student Government offices to find out how to register a new campus club, then spread the word!
- Get a job on campus. For students who need to earn some cash, campus jobs are a practical, realistic solution for involvement. Working at the coffee house may not be as fun as the ultimate Frisbee league, but it is a way for you to make a meaningful contribution to your campus community. Plus, your network of co-workers will keep you informed of the hottest events on campus.
In college, Michelle Schira Hagerman joined her faculty student government. She met some great people and learned the basics on how to run a good meeting.
Sources: Thanks to students Sarah Kawaguchi (McGill University), Cassie Robertson (Cornell University) and Katherine Chasmar (Queen's University) for their suggestions.