During my freshman year, my mentor told me that one of the most important things to do while in college (besides going to class and striving for good grades) is to get involved. Whether that be joining a club/organization, participating in SGA, or picking up research, making use of the resources available to you during your undergraduate career is crucial. I mean think about it, when will you ever have these many opportunities available to you at your fingertips?
I am now a senior and am thankful for the words my mentor bestowed to little freshman me. I transferred schools since then, but still took the necessary steps to get out of my comfort zone and involved on my campus. Of course keeping a healthy balance, I have been able to gain a lot of experiences and skills that have transferred over into my work life. When I go on internship/job interviews I am able to better answer the questions and provide examples due to my involvement. (Check Out This Cool Video About Why Involvement Matters)
However, I recently talked to my fellow senior peers who confide in me about their struggle searching for post-graduate opportunities and they wish they could go back and take advantage of the many programs and resources the university offers. Learning from the ones that go before you, check out this list of four cool opportunities the university is currently offering. Leave a comment about your experience with involvement on campus or even some other opportunities that we may have missed:
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“Tap” Dance Classes:
Happening every Monday until March 5th, head over to the Holloway Hall Auditorium where there will be free classes focused on the basic levels of tap. No experience or pre-registration necessary. Classes start at 5:00 pm.
2. PACE: Research Fellows:
“PACE Research Fellows are committed to furthering the SU and PACE mission statements through production and dissemination of scholarship related to public affairs, civic engagement, and citizenship education.” (salisbury.edu)
PACE stands for Public Affairs and Civic Engagement, and includes student from various major who come together to work on projects and develop resources that will assist the students at SU. Ultimately, members are able to “hone skills for constructive dialogue about challenging topics.”
3. Gull Squad: Orientation Leaders:
Interested in helping accepted students get acclimated into the university life? Then this is the job for you. The impact that you will have on incoming students will last a lifetime. It won’t even feel like you’re working! Check out how they welcomed the graduating class of 2017 during their freshman year. Stop by the Scarborough Leadership Center for more information.
4. University Student Academic Research Award:
Believe it or not research is pretty cool. Plus it looks good on your resume when a potential employer sees that you know to engage with material and develop critical thinking skills. The USARA supports undergraduate research in various subject areas. Under the supervision of a faculty member, students will be supported mentally and financially as travel expenses related to presentations at meetings and conferences will be covered. The deadline to submit your application is February 23, 2018 at 5:00 pm.