You’ve heard us say it over and over: an engaged student is a successful student. It’s a fact that students who are connected to campus life both inside and outside the classroom are more likely to persist to graduation. That alone is a big reason to get involved, but just in case improving your chances of reaching graduation day isn’t enough, let’s take a look at 5 more reasons that NOW is the time to join a Mason Registered Student Organization (RSO):
- Focus on Well-Being. We all need community! Even the biggest introvert needs to get their head out of a textbook, take a break, and connect with others occasionally. Student organizations are a great way to meet new people who share common interests. With more than 350 RSOs at Mason, whether you’re into sports, chess, music, Greek life, and more, there is a community for you. A little insider secret: Mason student organizations really want YOU! More members = more fun, so don’t wait for an invitation to find your niche. Take a chance and join!
- Enhance Your Professional Development. How’s the GMU Anime and Gaming Society going to help land me a job? It’s simple. Being involved looks good on a resume. It says you’re interesting and that you can connect with others. All RSOs also offer leadership opportunities and a chance to network – both big resume bonuses. Looking to enhance your career readiness even more? Join a group related to your major or career goals. Mason has dozens of clubs and honor societies related to academic interests.
- Expand Your Cultural and Social Horizons. Mason prides itself on nurturing diversity and inclusion, and perhaps nowhere is this better represented than in its range of student groups. You may never again have the opportunity to experience the wealth of cultures, faiths, and political viewpoints in one place as you have at Mason. Sharing a conversation, a dance, a meal, or even a protest march with a fellow Patriot from another walk of life can be a life-changing experience.
- Connect to the World Outside of Mason. Many Mason student groups are branches of national and international organizations with a reach that can extend well beyond campus and your years as a student. Those bigger networks can be a life-long social support and a valuable career connection. In addition to having fun and sharing common interests, RSOs can be a great way to explore the northern Virginia region and a significant number are also engaged in giving back to the local community through tutoring, volunteering, food and clothing drives, and fundraising.
- It’s Really Easy! If you were wondering where to begin finding the group(s) that are right for you, University Life has made it easy for you by sponsoring the Get Connected Fair on Wednesday, September 5, 2018 from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm on Wilkins Plaza (outside of the Johnson Center). Hundreds of student groups including Greek life, intramural sports, cultural, civic, and graduate organizations will have information tables and representatives to answer your questions. It’s a one-stop shop for getting involved, so no excuses!
Don’t forget to look for the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) at the fair, too! We will have a table there and you’ll also find tables for CEHD groups including Teachers of Tomorrow, Mason Kinesiology Club, Sport Management Society, and the new Human Development and Family Science Student Organization. See you there!
