Page 16 - University of Oregon Parent and Family Guide

THE BENEFITS OF CAMPUS INVOLVEMENT
By Kimberly Yavorski
College is an exciting crossroads. Students enter a world where they know few (if any) people and no one knows them. They may have met classmates through a Facebook group, during orientation or at a local send-off event, but for the most part they’re starting with a clean slate. They can do anything and be anyone.
While studying should take up most of your student’s time and energy, encourage them to get involved in a campus activity or two. There are lots of choices: clubs, sports, performance groups, volunteer opportunities and more. Campus involvement can help your student:
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Make friends.
Not everyone makes friends easily. Even students who do may be out of practice if they stuck with the same group all through high school. Sharing an activity with people who enjoy the same thing is a natural way to connect with potential friends. It’s a particularly good route for students who are shy. Clubs aren’t just for extroverts!
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Expand interests.
There’s nothing wrong with sticking with familiar activities, but college is also a chance to reinvent oneself. At many colleges, students without prior experience can get involved in theater, radio or the newspaper. Intramural sports welcome athletes of all abilities, not just the people who’ve played since kindergarten. Encourage your student to try something new!
Feel part of a community.
College may be your student’s first experience making all of their own decisions. They’re learning about themselves and their place in society and choosing what form that society takes.
A sense of community influences not only how happy a student is but also whether they complete their course of study at all. It can be isolating to spend all your time in class or at the library. Being involved with campus groups means working for a common goal and sharing successes and setbacks.
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