5 Ways Freshman Can Get Involved On Campus
By Courtney Wallen: Staff Writer
Starting a new chapter of your life can be daunting and challenging. College is a new horizon for many, but the best way to make it feel like home is to get involved. There are a lot of different avenues to get out there, meet new people and gain new experiences.
- Clubs & Student Led Organizations
There’s such a wide variety of club on campus that you’re bound to find something that intrigues you. Many of the organizations are student-led, meaning they’re spearheaded by people who were freshmen once, just like you. Meeting new friends can be hard, but finding people that share your interests can easily be done by joining clubs. The Exercise Science Club, Sports Management Club and National Broadcasting Society are just a few of the major-related organizations you can join. If you want more recreational, you can sing with Genesis Gospel Choir or join the Dance Company.
- Student Government Association
Our SGA works hard to make sure the voices and needs of the students are heard in order to make our extraordinary university even more extraordinary. A great way to improve our school is to let your voice be heard by joining SGA. Becoming a member or holding an elected position will open doors for leadership opportunities on campus. As a class or club’s representative, there are opportunities to enact change and ensure that the needs of our fellow students are met.
- Greek Life
A fantastic way to get involved and find your tribe is to sign up for Fall Recruitment this semester. HPU has recently moved the rush process to the fall semester instead of spring, which gives you more time to spend with your future brothers or sisters. Greek organizations are all about philanthropy, social engagement, lifelong connection and academic commitment. There are elected council positions available, which is a great way to get some leadership experience. Some of your everlasting friendships will come from joining a fraternity or sorority.
- Student Employment Program
Find a job that fits your interests. If you like to serve people, maybe apply for Campus Concierge. If you spend a lot of time in the stacks, apply for a job in Smith Library. Part-time positions (up to 20 hours per week) are available through the Workday portal posted on HPU’s website. Working with others allows you to meet new people, gain professional skills, and make more connections. Plus, making a few extra bucks is never a bad thing!
- Volunteer Opportunities
Our University highlights the importance of giving back to the community, and there are a handful of organizations on campus solely dedicated to service and volunteering. Alpha Phi Omega is a coeducational service fraternity, Alpha Delta Theta is a Christian service sorority, and Big Brothers/Big Sisters operates on our campus in part with High Point’s local schools.
These are just a few ways to get involved in HPU. Intramural sports, religious life, and Campus Activities Team are all really great ways to get involved and meet others like you. If you can’t find any club that suits you, then start your own! It may seem overwhelming, but the easiest way to see all the campus engagement opportunities HPU has to offer is to check out the Activities Fair at the beginning of each semester. On Monday, Aug. 21, head on down to Slane Student Center to check out all of the clubs and organizations on campus from 1-6PM.