Joining a Student Organization Finding the Right Group for You
Being a member of a student organization enriches your years in college in many ways. The good friends and good times help transform what is sometimes a large overwhelming institution into a place you can call "home." Student organizations also give you opportunities to explore new interests, develop skills, enhance your academic program and have an impact on the University community. You may want to get involved, but with over 150 organizations on campus, you may wonder how to find the best group for you.
You've made a good start by beginning the investigation process.
What's Important To Me?
Ask yourself some of these questions:
- What am I looking for in an organization?
- Do I primarily want to make new friends?
- Do I want to work on something I believe in?
- Do I want to explore something new?
- Should I be in a group that relates to my major or career choice?
- Do I want a real break from my academics?
- Shall I continue an interest from high school?
- Do I want to be of real service to the campus or community?
- Do I want to help make things happen?
- How much time do I have for an organization?
- Are there financial considerations?
What Kind Of Groups Are There?
The UL Lafayette people are a diverse community of people, ideas and concerns. There are many organizations in each of the following categories:
How Do I Get More Information?
At the beginning of the fall semester, UPC hosts Get On Board Day – the student organization fair on the Quad. Call 337-482-6939 to find out the September date and time. Get on Board Day will give you the opportunity to meet representatives from student organizations and university departments.
Another way to explore our vast variety of student organizations in our list of groups.
Organizations are always looking to recruit new members. They are very eager to answer your questions and explain their activities and purposes.
Most groups have "Mass Meetings" at the beginning of each term. These are open to any interested student. You're under no obligation to join the group if you attend - it's simply a chance for you to get more information and for the group to learn of your interest. If you miss a mass meeting or find out about a group during the year, call a contact person and ask when the next meeting is. If meeting times and programs are posted, you can always assume you're welcome. Of course, some organizations, such as honoraries, fraternities and sororities, have selected memberships, so be sure to find out the particulars in these cases.
Once you've joined an organization, be proactive. Introduce yourself to people, ask questions, express ideas and be sure to volunteer your time and energy. Engaging with people in the organization will help get you noticed and make the transition easier to feeling like a member.
Thank you to University of Michigan for information for this article.