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Choosing a Campus Activity

College Student Extracurricular Organizations and Clubs

Jun 3, 2008

Find your niche on a big campus with extracurricular activities. But don't overdo it, because you don't have as much time as you did in high school.

Planning to get involved with an on-campus activity or organization? This is a great way to meet like-minded people, find a niche on a big campus, and to build up your entry level resume for when you graduate.

However, when choosing activities, be selective. In high school, you probably had more time for extracurricular activities and could do the whole smorgasbord -- sports, band, school newspaper, chess club, spirit club, student government, or whatever sparked your interest. In college, you're going to be a whole lot more busy with your classes -- so you'll want want to choose a main course and maybe an appetizer or two, but there's no time for a smorgasbord. In addition, many college students have to work more hours than they did during high school, which will further limit your ability to join clubs and organizations.

The trick is to choose wisely. Find the activities that you enjoy the most, and that will fill other functions as well -- like helping you build a resume. And it's helpful if you find something you love and stick with it. On a resume or grad/professional school application, you can demonstrate commitment by getting involved in one activity for a long time, especially if you take on leadership roles in that organization.

Here's some tips of choosing the best campus activities for you.

Campus Activities and Time Commitment

Time is a very valuable commodity when you're a student, so before committing to a campus organization, figure out how much time you're going to need to commit, and how much time you actually have to give. Ask people in the group serious questions, and try to get some tangible numerical answers if possible (like "5-10 hours a week").

Building an Entry Level Resume

Since you can't be involved in lots of different activities, choose ones that serve several purposes. For example, you can choose an activity to allows you to have fun and meet people -- and also helps you build your resume and make contacts for future jobs.

To build your resume, choose activities that relate to your future career. If you want to go into law or politics, get involved in student government. If you're interested in writing, join the school newspaper or a campus literary publication. In addition, many majors offer a professional organization on campus that will help you network with other students and professionals in the field.

In addition, many different activities give you a chance to build your resume if you take on leadership positions. For example, fraternities and sororities have opportunities for students to become officers and run committees.

Other Multi-Tasking Campus Activities

Aside from building your resume, you can also "multi-task" by finding activities that are social and also allow you to things you would do otherwise. For example, you can join a sports-related club or team that allows to exercise and have fun. Or if you're religious, you can join a campus religious group that will help you explore your faith while meeting other students. If political or community volunteer work is important to you, explore campus organizations that allow you to volunteer.

Finding Your Niche on Campus

One of the best reasons to join a club or campus organization is that it will help you find your niche -- especially on a big campus, where you can feel like a number. Look for groups that reflect your interests or values, especially if you feel like you're surrounded by people who do not share these. If you're a sci-fi fan on an Abercrombie campus, you can find your niche at the campus sci-fi club. If you're part of a small Jewish minority on campus, join a Jewish student organization like Hillel or Chabad. If a club doesn't exist that reflects your interests, you may be able to start one.

Having trouble finding your niche in a student group? Spend a little time experimenting. Many organizations have orientation meeting and activities so you can see what you think. Try a bunch of new things, and then narrow down your list to the ones you really like.

Spend some time finding clubs and organizations that fit your needs and help you meet people. Campus activities can add quite a bit to your college experience -- just don't overdo it.

The copyright of the article Choosing a Campus Activity in Campus Activities is owned by Naomi Rockler-Gladen. Permission to republish Choosing a Campus Activity in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.