Students are often pressured into having or (exemplifying) the “college experience.” While the phrase has no clear definition: it has come to mean many different things.

The “college experience” has been coined by pop culture to include sporting events, binge drinking, promiscuity, but surviving relatively unscathed.

The argument can be made, however, that a true “college experience” is achieved through obtaining the most experience. The easiest and quickest way to get the most out of college is to join a student organization or club.

At no other point in life can students follow their interests and passions so freely. The benefits of participating are endless.  For senior Joseph Shepard, clubs and organizations dramatically shaped his future.

“Before being involved on campus, I was sure I was headed to law school to become a lawyer after receiving my degree,” Shepard said. “However, because of my involvement on campus and seeing the life impacting results which come from hard work and dedication I decided to attend graduate school to study student affairs.”

Clubs have also affected Sophomore Navya Gandikota, who said she is a member of five different student organizations.

‘’I think college is about so much more than simply focusing on academics,” said Gandikota. “What motivated me to be in clubs is that I have the opportunity to meet so many new people and make connections.”         

The sentiment also rings true for senior Paul Brink, whose experience on the Rowing Team has been significant, he said.

“Being a part of it has been life-changing in many ways, but being a part of a team, challenging myself and learning to manage my time have been the biggest impacts it has had on me” Brink said.. “I think everyone can benefit from being a part of a group, especially if people can find something they are passionate about.”

With more than 208 different organization listed on OrgSync (WSU’s campus organization registry) there is no reason any student should not be a member of at least one. That is, barring lack of time, a legitimate excuse for those working and going to school full-time.

WSU offers a range of clubs from academic, Greek life, cultural/international, community service, special interest, etc. There are many options for those having trouble finding the right club. At the beginning of each semester, Student Involvement hosts involvement fairs.

Further information can be found by finding clubs listed online or stopping by the Student Involvement office to speak to the Organization Outreach Chair. Or, students can contact someone already involved in a club or attend one of the organizations’ meetings.