How To: Get Involved

I have a problem. A serious problem. I agree to do too much. For example, I went to the activities fair with some of the freshmen I mentor in the business school. When we got there I said to myself 'Don't join anything else. You already have too much on your plate.' Of course by the time I was able to pull myself away I had already signed up for four new activities.

There are so many awesome things to do when you're in college that it is hard to narrow it down if you're like me. But how does one get to be so thoroughly involved that you can't walk anywhere without seeing friends from all different clubs?

Sign up. This is pretty self evident but the most effective way to go about getting involved. Although it can be intimidating to walk up to a table at the activities fair, just remember that they want new members! If you're looking to get more involved later in the semester then check out the list of organizations on your school's site and shoot an email over to the contact person asking when meetings are and what you need to do to become a member.

Be consistent. It is totally fine to go to a few meetings and see if the organization is right for you, but if you want to be an active and involved member you need to be consistent. 

Take on a leadership role. Once you feel comfortable with the clubs that you are in think about taking on greater responsibility. Volunteer to lead a project or run for an executive position. The more you give to a club, the more you will get out of it. 

Quality over quantity. This is something I struggle with SO MUCH! But be better than me and realize that it is impossible to do your best work if you are doing too many things. 

How else do you get involved? What are your top tips?

-AJF