Being involved with groups on and off campus is the only way to simultaneously achieve personal growth, make friends and pursue passions. It’s no secret that being involved with clubs and organizations is a good way to get a head start on your future and get some experience.
When you arrive at Gannon as a freshman, it’s important to stay visible to make friends. There are only so many Netflix episodes to watch in your twin bed before your dorm becomes a very lonely place. Be involved in groups to make friends. Joining clubs and organizations is a great way to socialize with like-minded individuals. It’s like making friends with someone you already know you’re going to have common interests with.
Another main incentive to joining clubs is to have a more well-rounded college experience. Doing something outside of class can be a good complement to your learning experience.
Extracurricular activities are a more interesting use of your time than studying and a more productive use of your time than partying like a rockstar.
Joining an organization makes you stand out from the crowd. This may be the thing that sets you apart from other applicants in an interview. Your resume shows that you’re not only competent but you have passions, too.
I’ve been encouraged to be involved with activities from a very young age. I tried softball until I got a fat lip. I tried to do high jump and hurdles in track very, very briefly. And I’ve been taking dance classes since before I could tie my ballet shoes. My mom always used to say that busy people don’t have time to get in trouble. I think it was her way of trying to keep me from becoming a hooligan.
During my time at Gannon, I’ve been involved with Alpha Psi Omega (honorary theater fraternity), Art Club, 90.5 WERG, The Gannon Knight, EDGE, University Ambassadors, LIFE and Advertising and Promotions Club.
When you enter into collegiate activities, they become a little more serious. These clubs could give you exposure or practice in fields or areas you’re interested in. There are many clubs at Gannon that are focused on the major that they serve.
Clubs like GUSPAS, Exercise Club, Alpha Kappa Psi (business fraternity) or Alpha Phi Sigma (criminal justice fraternity) are designed to help students prepare for their careers. Often, being in this group is a great way to network with other students and potential employees.
On the other hand, fun pickup games of soccer and Ultimate Frisbee are always an option to blow off steam or stretch your legs.
Social fraternities can also be an important part of a person’s collegiate experience. A student can find a sense of brotherhood and belonging in a group, something you cannot get from playing “Gears of War” by yourself or from reading the entire series of “The Hunger Games” alone in your room. Greek life can help you cope with the stresses of your academic work load.
The ideals and values of each organization stress the importance of developing its members as leaders, scholars and civic-minded individuals. Fraternity and sorority membership provides opportunities for interpersonal and social development, philanthropic and community service endeavors, leadership skill training, recreational and spiritual pursuits.
Clubs and organizations are always supportive of your personal growth. Not only do they want you to be a valuable member of the team, but they want you to be personally successful in your endeavors.
BRIANNA WOODS
