Most students go to college to learn. Many know, or at least soon discover, that their academic work at college will be different than the work that they did in high school. They are expected to spend more time studying and there is a higher level of thinking demanded. 

But, the college years are also about experiential learning, which often happens outside of the classroom. Unfortunately, many college students pass up opportunities that they have in college because they are too focused on their academic life. Many worry that getting involved in activities or organizations on campus will distract them from their academic pursuits, rather than enhance their academics.

Your college student is learning to find their own path during college, and will need to make their own choices. But as a college parent, you can encourage your student to take advantage of the many opportunities available on campus. Encourage them to think about the benefits of getting involved in groups and activities that the college offers. Encourage them to attend Spring O’Rama on February 2, 2024, to learn more about the 200+ clubs, organizations, and design teams at Missouri S&T. If your student needs a little extra help, Peer Involvement Advisors (PIA) offer one-on-one advising based on your student’s interests and personality traits.

Great reasons to get involved.

• Getting involved in groups that share common interests, or attending activities offered by the college can be FUN. It’s as simple as that. Your student will have a good time, and everyone needs a break in their academic routine to have some fun once in a while.
• Getting involved will give your student the opportunity to meet new people. College is about making new friends, understanding different perspectives, and meeting different kinds of people. Getting involved in campus activities gives your student the chance to meet people and diversify their contacts beyond the circle of people encountered in their residence hall or classes.
• Colleges offer opportunities, often at little or no cost, that may not be so easily  encountered again. Major performers, even traveling Broadway shows (Hairspray on February 21^st!), come to campus. Discount tickets to performances and athletic events are usually available. World renowned speakers visit campus to give addresses or conduct workshops, such as the Chancellor’s Speaker Series.
• Your student may have the opportunity to feed a new interest. Explore a new area of interest, and discover hidden talents or new passions, which may even lead to a new career path.
• Your student may have the opportunity to connect with the college and community in a new and different way. Begin to feel more a part of either the college community or the wider community. Increase a sense of loyalty and identity as a member of the college.
• Being involved in groups becomes a resume builder, and frequently offers growth in leadership roles. Career fair recruiters love hearing about participation and development of leadership responsibilities.
• Your student will learn to deal with all kinds of people. Meeting and spending time with other types of students may place students in closer contact with faculty members, administrators, or members of the outside community.
• Several studies have shown that students who are active in campus activities, who do more than focus solely on their studies, are more engaged in the campus community and succeed more academically. Other studies suggest that more engaged students stay at their institution and won’t feel the need to transfer. Although some students fear that being involved will hurt their academics, it frequently actually helps their studies.

Balance is important.

Being involved and engaged in campus activities can bring tremendous benefit to your college student. However, finding balance is key. Participating in some activities and groups at school are important for your student’s well-being. But, being involved in EVERYTHING, allowing activities to distract from studies, or interfering with their life focus, can be dangerous.  Your student will need to consider – ”How much is enough?” and ”How much is too much?” Your student will need to find their personal appropriate and comfortable level of involvement.

Source

Author of Article: Vicki Nelson. Article adapted from https://www.collegeparentcentral.com/2009/11/why-you-should-encourage-your-college-student-to-get-involved-on-campus/ .  Please Note: Missouri S&T does not endorse or have a relationship with SOURCE and articles are provided for information purposes only.  Missouri S&T and SOURCE do not assume responsibility for error or omission in materials.  

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