College can be a difficult transition from high school. Classes are harder, dorm living is stressful and making friends is nerve wracking.
Joining a club or organization can help when it comes to finding like-minded people. Nearly every department has specific clubs that are open for anyone to join, even if you are undecided on what your major will be. These meetings are often announced in emails or posted on Presence, an app found in MavZone. There is a group for almost any interest you can imagine.
These meetings or activities can break you out of the routine you might find yourself in of going to class and heading straight to your room. You will meet new people, make friends and learn new things.
If you are majoring in one area but want to study in another without taking a class, clubs are the way to go. For instance, an engineering major may be interested in learning about social sciences, so they could join Sociology Club or Political Science Club. Not to mention that also looks good on a resume.
Oftentimes clubs and organizations have open officer positions after a semester ends and people graduate, which gives students the opportunity to get into leadership early on.
Organizations such as the Sustainability Council have made great changes on campus, including a compost site and the removal of Styrofoam from dining services. Being a part of one or more of these groups gives you the chance to make a change on campus and leave a legacy for future students.
Some positions in organizations are even paid, so you can earn money while doing work you love. It’s amazing to see yourself surrounded by students who care so much about Colorado Mesa University and being able to make a difference with the clubs and organizations that you are in.
In addition, students who are unsure about their field of study can go to different clubs and see what they like to do. You can make professional connections that will set you up for after college as well.
There are a lot of reasons to join groups on campus, but the fun you have with people who can turn into lifelong friends outweigh them all.