Palousafest is a great campus event, a true party to kick off the school year with some food, music and dancing – even if that dancing was in the rain.
The cornerstone of this event is the plethora of student organizations, political parties, religious groups, Greek houses and university departments that set up their tables in hopes of attracting the attention of fellow students.
Here is the little secrets all of these involved students know, taking part in these groups does not just create friends and memories, but can enhance and sometimes define the student experience at UI.
UI has over 200 student organizations to be involved in, everything from community service groups like Vandal Volunteer, to recreational organizations like the Fencing club.
These organizations not only offer students activities that they enjoy, but also form a closer connection to UI.
Taking part in organizations is not just for recreation but can add much needed experience to a resume.
UI website lists 36 “professional” student organizations such as the American Society of Chemical Engineers that helps students not only network with professional chemical engineers but also access industry research and processes.
Many of these professionally oriented organizations allow students to explore future careers, and – more importantly – allow students to make connections with professionals in their industry. These organizations are some of the most important ways to expand on the learning that happens in the classroom.
That being said, students should not let their commitments to outside activities interfere with their academics, but finding the right balance between work and pleasure is the key to success.
What if someone chooses not to be involved? Do they risk being behind their classmates in their occupation? Not necessarily, but it does offer an equally disappointing result, not becoming an interesting individual.
This is what college is, you meet new people, get out of your comfort zone, share ideas, get involved and become passionate about something. And that something could be anything, and there is a good chance there are other people on campus passionate about that same thing.
College years are transformative for students, they influence our views, personality and give us valuable experiences as we enter true adulthood.
Rayce Bird delivered a similar message when he addressed students as a guest speaker at convocation. He spoke how UI pushed him to create his own world and express his artistic vision. An artistic vision that led him to win the second season of “Face Off,” Syfy’s hit reality TV show.
Bird found his passion at UI, hopefully many other students will as well. One of the best places to start is with a student organization.
Ryan Tarinelli can be reached at [email protected]