College is one of the greatest experiences an individual can get on the academic and social level. First and most important, having the ability to receive an elite college education tops the charts; with the economic recession from 2008 and the increase of job unemployment, a Bachelor’s degree can open more doors to various opportunities. Aside from academics, extra-curricular and social activities also make the experience wholesome.
When I set foot on the USFSP campus, I have to admit, my innate feeling was not a positive one. I felt like I was still in high school. The campus is small and I only attended campus for class… that was it! Because of financial issues, I wanted to stay home for my college education. But I also chose USFSP for its great academic achievement and for its breath-taking views. But even though all of these things were check-offs on my list, there was something missing. I was extremely involved in extra-curricular activities in high school: NHS, S.T.E.P and other honor societies… something that I needed to continue on my post-secondary education. I did not want my college experience to solely focus on the academic; I wanted to make friends, interact with fellow students who shared the same vision and goals as I did. I wanted to be known on campus and make a difference… for people to at least have an idea of who I was on campus. I KNEW that I had to get involved in order for my college experience to be more enjoyable… so I did!
As a commuter student, it can be difficult to attend social events on campus, like a homecoming dance, carnivals, movie nights and dorm parties, even more if you live a bit far away and if you work. But, if you HAVE to and WANT to be involved somehow, join organizations that relate to your major; you will definitely find the time for it if it truly matters. I joined Delta Sigma Pi, a professional business fraternity that allows me to network with fellow business majors. I also joined HerCampus USFSP, an online magazine that allows me to hone my mass communication skills. Another extremely involved student at USFSP, who is a commuter as well, says his involvement on campus have made his college experience more enjoyable. Franklin Figueiredo Alves, a senior at USFSP, president of GSA, founder/president of the Longboard club and senate president of student government, states “I can’t picture my life without others involving. I mean, I wouldn’t be sure what to do with my time, but I a hundred percent can say that my campus experience wouldn’t be as rich without getting involved, planning events and even hoping people just show up to events that are not even mine.”
Franklin’s involvement is very extensive and very admirable, but when asked if taking this step was easy he told us, “I was so scared the first time I went to a campus event because I transferred here all by myself and I didn’t know anybody. But the best part is that everyone here is so friendly and nice but it didn’t take too much time to get involved.”
If you want to get involved on campus, but don’t know how to start, check your school’s website for clubs/organizations. As a USFSP student, go to Petesync.com to check out information of various organizations and what time they meet. Remember that your college academics come first and work is very important too. If you have the time to join school’s organizations, do so! It will not only help you be more involved on campus, it will also allow you to network and make friends for a life-time.