How vital is it to participate in student organizations in college?

Hi Mounia!

You are asking a very important question.

One of the most important things to do in college is to maintain a good sense of balance between school work and social life
http://www.collegeconfidential.com/dean/000241/

Regarding organizations, one should be choosy, but become involved in an organization related to one's career area of choice and an organization that would give one a sense of enjoyment and fun to offset the serious time spent with school work.

Becoming involved in an organization related to your career area of choice has several important purposes:
- it allows you to become aware of what people are doing in that area in the real world
- it allows you to meet other people who are interested in the same area
- it allow you to see how what you are studying applies as you go along in your courses

When I was doing college recruiting, the most frustrating times were spent when a graduate came on the job and found that he/she did not like the job for which he/she had studied. If they had participated in some way in career related activities, they could have prevented this from happening.

Talk to your academic adviser about career related organizations, coop and intern and shadowing programs, and other activities that will allow you to become more familiar with your career area.

Let me know if and how this might be of help. Keep me posted. I would like to follow your progress.

The participation in on campus clubs and activities is vital to the building of your resume. As a full-time student, you will still need to demonstrate to the competitive work force that you understand teamwork, meeting deadlines, balancing budgets or working with people in position of authority in an effort to stand out as an extra level employee. To do that, it is vital that you not only participate in on campus organizations, but that you attempt to chair projects, co-chair projects, take lead positions and perhaps earn the title of President, if and when possible, to show future employers you are willing to take on greater levels of responsibility outside of the classroom. Join clubs, ask to be a research assistant, look for on campus and near campus internships, request externships from alumni, volunteer in your future professional field, and join organizations as a student to establish professional interest and affiliation within you field.

First, think back to high school..how important was it for you then to join clubs and organizations? Did you do it for the camaraderie of friends, to foster a connection to the school, to experience the risk of stepping out of your comfort zone, or just to have a list of clubs to post on your college application to impress the admissions staff?

Now fast forward years later and you're at the same place. If you're a social person, it's usually easier to facilitate the process; if not, you're probably more apprehensive. Being around people with common interests can be both mentally and socially healthy. You will improve your listening, communication, and even possibly your leadership skills. You will model positive behaviors from your peers that can help with networking, maturation, and social interactions. You never know who you might meet who can help you with future goals, and vice-versa. Never underestimate your talent and what you have to "bring to the table." Life doesn't end at college; what you learn in your social community can be a life skill for the future.

Hope this helps!

Being part of student organizations (orgs) and clubs can be a very beneficial thing. For one, it is a great way to meet other people. Some of my closest friends today are the ones I met through being involved with clubs and orgs. Down the line these people may end up being the ones helping you land an internship or job. Clubs and orgs are also something you can put on your resume and talk about with potential employers. The hiring manager might even have been part of the same club or org, which can serve as a good ice breaker during your interview by establishing common ground and make you a memorable candidate. Clubs and orgs that are related to your major can also highlight and emphasize your genuine enthusiasm to work in a certain field. They can also help reflect other traits and skills that your work experience or degree might not. For example, if you volunteer or end up taking on a leadership role, your experience with clubs and orgs can show you take initiative, have leadership skills, work well with others, etc. (All desirable traits employers seek). If you are applying to graduate school, you can use your experiences in clubs or orgs as something to discuss in your personal statement & other essays.

One more thing, don't be afraid to explore clubs and orgs outside of your major. If you have a passion or interest in other areas, clubs and orgs are good way to stay active in those interests.