I believe that student organizations can sometimes get overlooked. Not everyone knows what's out there on a college campus. But once you find the right organization for you...you won't want to leave. Here are four reasons why being a part of a student organization is a must during your college career.
1. Growth
I was the Station Manager for our on-campus TV stations; TV-10. TV-10 has approximately 50 students each semester. I can't tell you how much I watched these students grow during my time there. We had students walking in who would hardly say a word only to turn into someone who others feel comfortable approaching and asking questions. It amazes me how much you can learn as a student outside of the classroom just by being part of a student organization.
2. Learn What You Want To Do
I came into TV-10 with the idea that I would become the next Erin Andrews. I went through my whole freshman year with that dream. Once I joined TV-10 my sophomore year, I quickly realized that being in front of a camera was something that I did not like to do. It took me until a couple weeks before graduation until I figured out what career path I wanted to strive for, and a student organization is what lead me to find what I wanted to do with the rest of my life.
3. A Sense of Belonging
I don't think I've met a more welcoming group of people than the student org I was a part of. Once you find the right org, they will let you in with open arms. The biggest goal of an organization is to teach students and give them opportunities to express their creativity. I love watching students eyes light up when they tell me we can make something happen. Your voice is heard when you are a part of an organization. You finally feel like you have found your home away from home.
4. Friends That Become Family
Endless beyond endless hours are spent with the same people who are a part of the org. Each day you become closer and closer with them and before you know it, they are your best friends. No matter how many students there are in your org or how many differences there are between people, they all have one thing in common; they are a part of that org. It's so rewarding watching friendships form. I can also confidently say that any of those 50 kids within TV-10 would have my back, and I would have theirs. You become a family.
I cannot express the love I have for the student organization I was a part of during college. When I was a freshman I was hesitant to join anything and wanted to leave after my first semester. I didn't leave, I joined TV-10 and it was the best decision I ever made. So, if you are starting college in the fall--remember it's a good idea to join a student org! Those who are older students--remember that it's never too late to join an organization.
