Research suggests that when students actively participate in campus life at their institution they tend to earn better grades, transfer less, graduate, and enjoy the college experience more. I describe the college years to be as a launching pad.
Campus involvement includes membership in student organizations and clubs, participation in athletics, faith-based groups, community service, employment or work study, Greek life, campus wide events or celebrations, and student excursions.
1. Learn and develop skills – Campus involvement helps build well-rounded students through personal and professional growth. Extracurricular activities offer new experiences, leadership opportunities, collaboration, and self-expression.
2. Form strong connections – Campus involvement allows students to avoid isolation and feel connected to a valuable support system. Interaction and exposure to people with diverse cultures, opinions, values, and goals provides the open door to new friendships. Students also have the opportunity to forge relationships with people with similar interests and ideals. Students can also build their resume and professional network through campus involvement and increase their employment options after graduation.
3. Clarify your goals – Student can join campus activities based on their long and short-term goals. Active engagement forces students to get organized, set priorities, and manage their time effectively. Exploring career interests through campus involvement is a great way to learn without a commitment. Students can learn more and move on if they don’t like it or go full speed ahead.
4. Leverage Resources – Most higher education institutions offer an array of services, from counseling, to health screenings, to discount tickets to performances that many students are unaware of. Students who are actively involved in campus life tend to know more about what opportunities and resources are available, how to bring performers or events to campus, and who to reach out to during challenging times.
5. Have fun – Campus involvement can help students handle stress and avoid overwhelm and anxiety. Taking a break from academic demands to enjoy an activity allows students to return to their studies more relaxed and refreshed.
**Warning: Never allow your social life to hinder your academic endeavors.**
Get To Graduation Workshop – The path to a college degree is rarely linear. Earning a degree is only part of the successful higher education equation. A well-adjusted student has a plan B, C and D, understands the importance of strong connections, practical experience, and marketable skills, and has learned to leverage campus and career opportunities. This workshop will help both graduate and undergraduate students maintain motivation and make the most of their college years.
Nicki Sanders, Chief Visionary Officer of Packaged For Success, helps both youth and adults discover their personal power, dream big, and achieve success on their own terms. Ms. Sanders is an experienced trainer, group facilitator, and program manager who holds a Master’s degree in Social Work. Ms. Sanders has over fifteen years of direct experience with diverse populations in residential, school-based, and community based agencies.
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