Reflecting over my time in college so far, one thing I am the happiest about is finding and joining groups that truly benefit me as a person. At first, I was under the impression that I needed to find a group that just looked good on my resume, or helped me prepare for a job, but I soon came to learn that finding a group you truly love and feel passionate about can be just as beneficial to your life and future. I’m not saying all organizations are perfect, and without drama, but if you love it enough, you’ll be willing to deal with whatever it throws at you, and whatever comfort levels it pushes.
1. Meet New People
For different people, joining a group means different things. There are social reasons for a group, certainly, and joining clubs has helped me to meet new people, as well as to enrich existing friendships. It’s really interesting and important to interact with people with different personality types. In this way, a fun group can greatly prepare you for other groups you may encounter, (i.e. coworkers).Â
2. Help Others
Many groups have philanthropy at their core, which is a fantastic way to help others, as well as getting to know the greater community of your college-area. It’s not only beneficial to others, but also to you. You feel accomplished, and it’s a great way to have a break from your typical workload while actually doing something productive.
3. Grow as a Person
I have learned about myself through clubs and bettered myself, by not only enriching my schedule with activities I am passionate about, but by getting out of my comfort zone with the help and support of my peers. I am also learning more about my personality and how I work within a group or as a leader in various situations. I came to college with serious stage fright, and as I pushed myself to join groups involving performance, and aided by my peers within the group, I have learned to overcome it.
4. Learn New Skills
Just because you’re a newbie at something, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t join a group dedicated to it. You might be surprised by just how much you learn through the environment, when you attend events regularly and throw yourself head-in. Your confidence in any subject will increase instrumentally, and by next year, you’ll be helping new members!
5. Expand Your Interests
Maybe you signed up for a club just because you were loitering by their stand, and now suddenly you’re on their dislist and it just looks so cool. Join! You might not know your interests until you’re faced with them. Who knows, maybe that a cappella group will inspire you to change your science major to the arts…
6. Relieve Stress
Even if you have a job to do within your group, being part of a club can be a great break from your other responsibilities. It helps you to focus some of your energy on something other than homework, which can be a great relief. Sometimes, it can also be a much needed tool for procrastination, just don’t let it come first or interfere with getting this other work done.
7. Have Fun
At the heart of it all, joining a group should be fun. This is often a lesson you have to learn on your own. If a group isn’t fun for you, or if you dread going to meetings – stop. It doesn’t matter if it looks good on your resume. If you aren’t happy, move on. Find a group you love, and all else will fall into place.
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