There are over 100 student organizations at Ithaca College, and they all have something in common: they want YOU! In order for these organizations to both exist and thrive, there has to be a number of dedicated members involved, and e-board personnel make sure to pitch the very best aspects of their activity to even the most disinterested prospects. After all, without members, there is rarely a guiding purpose for student organizations. If you visited the organizaton fair last week, odds are your inbox is now overflowing with recruitment night reminders and weekly newsletters from more organizations than you can count. And guess what? It’s okay. Even the driest, most obsolete organizations generate excitement when coupled with the right salesperson and the overall energy of the org fair. But don’t worry, there’s no need to spread yourself too thin. Here are a few of our top tips on choosing the best student organizations for you and weeding out those that are simply crowding your inbox and taking up time:
1. Know your schedule.
Knowing your schedule and courseload is imperative to navigating the countless student organizations vying for your attention. Make judgements on how much work you’ll typically recieve from each of your courses, yet maintain a schedule flexible enough to forgive for underestimations. This will help you calculate the amount of time you are willing and able to commit to extracurricular activities.
2. Be interested.
As they say, the first step to being interesting is to be interested. Make an effort to attend various recruitment nights, even those of organizations you’re unsure if you want to commit to. By being interested in diverse opportunities, you may find you discover a new passion or organization you would’ve otherwise neglected to pursue.
3. Keep your major in mind.
It’s great to be involved in a variety of organizations. It’s an opportunity to meet new people and learn outside of the classroom. However, keep in mind that student organizations do have the ability to bolster your resume exponentially, especially if you land a leadership position. While you should only join clubs you’re genuinely interested in, try to pick at least one organization that will help you hone your career skills and give you something to talk about during interviews down the line.
4. Be a lone wolf (kinda).
Can’t find a friend to attend recruitment night with? No biggie, or at least it shouldn’t be. Though you’re a college student, you’re also an adult! This is a great opportunity to go outside of your comfort zone and introduce yourself to new people without the security blanket of your BFF. It can also be easier, at times, to make judgements for yourself, by yourself!
5. Follow your passion.
It sounds cliche, but it’s the truth. There’s so many ways to get involved on campus, so choose those that interest you! Maybe you’re an art lover but have never had the courage to expose your skills before. Or maybe you’re interested in caring for puppies who need guidance and training to become service dogs one day. Explore your options and know that most clubs accept new members throughout the semester. So what if you missed recruitment night? Email an e-board member and find out how you can get involved. All you have to do is ask, and you don’t know until you try!