Involvement in an activity that reaches beyond the academic sphere is so important in college. It allows you to explore new interests and ideas, while befriending new individuals within that organization or group. New involvement also supplements your current knowledge and may influence your perspective on the world. There are clubs for most interests, and the people in them are always looking for other like-minded individuals to meet and share in those experiences. Social clubs (think sororities or fraternities) are also popular amongst students who want to build a community of people around them. There is a lot of research being done at a university of this caliber, and professors are eager to recruit qualified candidates whose interests and goals align with their research. Volunteerism is also quite popular and there are so many opportunities within the area to start participating in volunteer work.
Registered Student Organizations and social clubs
RSO’s are always expanding and scaling on this campus. Every year there is a new club that is created by student groups that would love to welcome new members. These clubs have no limits- their common interests may be as broad as becoming the future medical professionals of America, or something super exclusive like the “future female otolaryngologists of Eastern European descent”. No matter how niche it is, there is always something for someone. As redundant as that sounds, I truly believe it. To get involved in a club, there are extensive lists found online, postings on social media, and old fashioned posters in buildings that let you know your next steps to join.
Research opportunities
At a major research institution such as this one, it’s almost impossible to not get involved with research if you’re actively looking to do so. If you have the chance to take a class with a well known professor within their field, you’re more likely than not to be introduced to research they are leading or taking part in. A great way to get your foot in the door is to come up to them after class and show genuine interest in what they’re doing. Having face time with them makes you more memorable and helps you build rapport with that professor. Ask them questions about their research, such as what made them conduct it, or what kind of faculty or students are involved in it.
Volunteerism
Volunteering is so rewarding. There are several opportunities to volunteer on a college campus or around one, and our university is no different. There are spots for volunteers at local soup kitchens, sustainability clean up crews, parks departments, local schools, and hospitals or clinics. Often you have to sign up for a certain time commitment (for example, at least three hours a week for one whole semester), so be sure to feel passionate to dedicate some of your time to an unpaid task. Though the reasons for doing it shouldn’t solely be for this reason, adding volunteer work to your resume looks great.
