Everyone wants to belong, and for freshmen, that means finding a place on campus. Joining clubs, cheering on a sports team or attending campus events are just some of the ways many look to create connections with other Lopers and the UNK community.
Our team wants to encourage the new faces on campus to search for those connections and get involved.
It is early in the semester, but we hope to see more and more students get engaged with campus happenings.
It takes a little while to get adjusted to the start of the semester and everything new that college entails. As we approach the one-month mark, there’s no better time to go to that athletic event, try out a new club or say hello to a stranger in the cafeteria.
College is meant to be about more than academics. While securing that degree is the ultimate goal, the experience should include more than attending class, going to work and finishing homework. “All work and no play” does not equal an enjoyable life.
Apart from creating a better work-life balance, getting involved leads to higher results in the classroom. Studies have proven that those who get involved outside of their classes do better academically.
Taking on a leadership role or connecting with peers through a club also has a positive impact on students’ mental health.
Along with forming friendships, getting involved can also lead to gaining professional mentors. Many faculty and staff members advise campus organizations or offices on campus that host UNK events. By joining campus clubs, students receive a guide and a voice of support for their academic and future career.
Luckily, there is something for everyone. The options range from career-related to interest-based organizations.
Several departments have organizations related to their majors, allowing students to experience their degree in a new way. On the flip side, there are hobby or passion-related clubs as well, such as craft, fitness or religion-based.
These organizations serve as opportunities not only for fun, but also for developing skills like leadership and working with others toward a common goal.
Getting involved has a ripple effect on the rest of the campus. UNK can only continue to have fun events and organizations if new students also get involved. Not only do we get new students each year, but we also lose students – students who held roles on campus that can now be passed on.
Lopers, get involved. Try out a few different clubs. Run for a leadership spot on campus. Not only will it have personal benefits, but it will also have a greater impact on maintaining the community that UNK has.
