Guide to Extracurriculars at Harvard
Harvard can seem like an intimidating place when it comes to extracurricular activities. There are so many organizations and it can be hard to know where to start and what to prioritize. But the good news is that there is literally something for everyone! If you like it, there’s probably a club, team, or group for it here. So how do you begin to navigate extracurricular life at Harvard?
1. Read your emails
You get a ton of them. But that’s just because there are so many awesome organizations just waiting for enthusiastic, talented people like you to join them! Be on the lookout for emails about activities you might enjoy, internships you might want to apply for, and employment opportunities you might want to take advantage of. This leads me to point #2, which is…
2. Get on every email list
What’s the harm? Whenever you hear about something you think you might be interested in, sign up to get emails! It can’t hurt to stay informed. Those of you with commitment issues, don’t worry—you can always unsubscribe from any email list.
3. Read posters
A lot of organizations require their members to put posters up around campus (in the science center and other buildings, and on bulletin boards all around) advertising events, concerts, tryouts, auditions, and other opportunities. Don’t let these students’ postering efforts go to waste. Look around!
4. Do what you really love!
News flash—you can stop trying to get into college now. Don’t sign up for activities you don’t really love just to fluff your resume! College is a time to find yourself and pursue what you’re really passionate about. If you do something you really love and that happens to lead to things that make your resume fluffy, that’s the dream.
5. Don’t be afraid to try something new
Audition for that a capella group! Rush that sorority! Try out for that team! What’s the worst that happens? Your life stays the same as it is now? Scary stuff. Don’t be afraid to try that thing you’ve always been interested in but never had time for. If you put yourself out there you might be pleasantly surprised and make some cool new friends! If it doesn’t work out, move on to the next cool thing.
Check out the extensive list of student organizations that are recognized by Harvard at the Office of Student Life website:
Happy exploring!