How to Get Involved on Campus: 8 Ideas & Tips for Getting Involved

The most important aspect of college is getting a solid education. Or is it? While you should attend classes, study, and acquire a degree, learning how to get involved on campus is another important part of enjoying and excelling in college. Whether you’re living on campus, at home, or at Mansfield Hall, there are ways to get involved on campus and get the most out of your college experience. 

Benefits of Campus Involvement for Students with Learning Disabilities

You may be wondering why being involved in campus life is so essential. It might sound like something nice to do, but is it really that important? We think it is, and here’s why: getting involved on campus is a great way to interact with your peers and learn new things. It can also provide unique opportunities to develop your skills and explore potential career paths. Joining various student organizations or participating in campus activities can help you discover interests that you may never have thought of before. Not to mention, being involved in campus life can be a wonderful way to make lasting friendships and gain invaluable life experiences. Plus, it looks great on resumes when you apply for jobs after college! 

4 Ways to Get Involved on Campus

If we’ve convinced you that there are awesome benefits of getting involved on campus, now you’re probably wondering how to get involved on campus. Here are four ways you can make the most of your college experience. 

1. Join a Student Organization

Most colleges have countless groups and organizations students can join to connect with like-minded people. Some common options include:

• Academic clubs
• Political clubs
• College media publications
• Community service & volunteer opportunities
• Theater & the arts
• Cultural groups
• Religious groups
• Intramural sports teams

Depending on your interests, you can find a student organization to join and spend more time on campus doing what you love with others who love the same stuff.

2. Study on Campus

The best way to experience campus life to the fullest is to spend time on campus. You never know what opportunities will come simply by studying at a campus library. Perhaps you’ll see a flyer for an upcoming event or meet someone new to hang out with. The more present you are, the more involved you’ll become. 

3. Participate in Campus Events 

Whether it’s attending your college’s football game or going to the holiday choir concert, you have lots of opportunities to participate in campus activities and events. Keep an eye out for flyers around campus that highlight upcoming activities, or check your college’s website for a schedule of sporting events. 

4. Eat on Campus

Not everything you do on campus has to be a formal occasion. Simply spending more time on campus is a great way to meet new people and gain new experiences. Try a new restaurant in the food court, or ask a friend to go to the campus bookstore with you. These experiences are just as important as studying hard and learning new things.

4 Tips for Getting Involved on Campus

You may love the idea of experiencing the benefits of getting involved on campus. But you also might feel overwhelmed, shy, or uncomfortable with putting yourself out there. That’s totally understandable, and here are some tips to help you overcome that. 

1. Don’t Go Alone

It can be nerve-racking to attend a student organization meeting for the first time by yourself. So, don’t go alone! Ask your roommate or a college friend to participate with you. Even if they only come the first time, it will help calm your nerves. Then, you might feel more comfortable attending on a regular basis.

2. Find Clubs that Prioritize Inclusion

Reach out and make connections with clubs interested in accessibility and related topics, as they will provide an inclusive and supportive atmosphere. You will find like-minded people to connect with over topics that matter most to you. 

3. Ask for Recommendations

Before joining a student organization, ask for recommendations. You might consider contacting the head of a student club and asking questions about what to expect before attending. Or, if you have a student counselor or tutor, you can ask for recommendations and advice. 

4. Plan Ahead

Planning ahead is the best way to make sure you don’t miss out on campus events and activities. At the beginning of the semester, add important dates to your calendar. Perhaps you’ll write down every home football game or when local bands are playing on campus. By having these events already noted in your calendar, you’ll be more likely to attend and get involved in campus life.

Have the Best College Experience by Living at Mansfield Hall

Getting involved on campus is an excellent way to make friends, try new things, and enjoy your college years. And if you want to ensure the best college experience as a student with learning disabilities, consider living at Mansfield Hall. The Hall is a supportive living and learning community that provides academic and social support for students on the spectrum. Learn more about student life at Mansfield Hall today!