Do More Than Just Go to Class
Students go to college to receive an education. We know this. However, there are so many activities a student can get involved in outside of the classroom to enhance their academic experience. We call this getting a well-rounded college experience. But what might this look like for a college student in the United States? It differs for each student. Co and extra-curricular activities are wide and varied depending on the type and size of institution you attend. However, below is just a sampling of some of the opportunities you may experience while attending college.
Athletics
Many college and universities offer students the opportunity to take part in varsity collegiate sports programs. The breadth and depth of the athletic experience varies from institution to institution, but many programs offer sports such as baseball, softball, soccer, golf, cross-country, track, volleyball, swimming, etc. Many colleges have competitive varsity athletic programs, so student athletes are often recruited during high school to play a particular sport. However, there are many students who try out and are considered “walk-ons” to a particular sport.
Some students don’t like the idea of playing varsity sports due to the rigorous practice schedule and length of the sports season. If this is the case, you may consider taking part in intramural or club sports. These activities are often student driven. In other words, intramural and club sports are sporting initiatives generated by student interest. Some of the more popular intramural and club activities include flag football, indoor floor hockey, and basketball; however, I have also known students to compete in intramural and club badminton, whiffle ball, dodgeball, etc.
Many campuses also offer the use of a campus Fitness Center. So even if you are not interested in taking part in any type of activity listed above, you’re still able to stay fit and work out at your own pace.
Campus Programming
Just as colleges and universities vary in size and shape, so do the variety of campus programs that take place. It wouldn’t be uncommon for bands, magicians, speakers, and comedians to be on campus to entertain the students. Likewise, weekend movie series are also popular on many college campuses. In fact, there is often an entire office dedicated to this type of activity on college campuses. Many students often gain valuable leadership opportunities by assisting with the planning of such programs. Sometimes these students are referred to as the Campus Activity Board or some other catchy title.
Student Leadership
College campuses wouldn’t exist without students. Most colleges and universities offer student leadership opportunities. Many leadership positions are held on club executive boards, Student Government Associations, and other organizations where students take an active role in providing a voice for the overall student body. I remember when I was a student I was provided the opportunity to lead the Student Health and Wellness organization, where we would present programs to students on important health-related topics. Many campuses also provide students the opportunity to take part in student leadership conferences at the local, regional, and state level. These conferences are invaluable leadership experiences because they allow students to network with other college students across the country and provide worthwhile leadership training.
Clubs and Organizations
Colleges and universities across the country often provide students the opportunity to join various social, academic, cultural, or spiritual clubs and organizations. In fact, many campuses often invite students to start a new club if it is currently not active on their campus.
Whatever opportunities you decide to pursue outside of the classroom – and there are many! – keep in mind that a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) is often required. This means that you need to maintain a certain GPA, and if you fall below this minimum standard, you can no longer participate in the specific activity. At the institution where I work we often say you are a student first. If you are no good in the classroom you’re no good outside of the classroom. What we mean is that your academic endeavors should be paramount to all that you do on a college campus. Keep this at the forefront of your mind as you get involved outside of the classroom. Research has often shown that if students manage their time properly and get engaged in extracurricular activities, they have a more rewarding and productive academic experience. So get involved! Do more than just go to class.
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