Why Should You Join a Club on Campus?

College Clubs Transform Your College Experience

What will you do with the next four years? Your college experience will be filled with opportunities and new challenges, not just academically but socially and personally. Beyond the lecture halls and textbooks lies a vibrant campus life filled with clubs and organizations that can help you make friends, network, and enrich your time at SUNY Fredonia. In fact, many Fredonia students point to joining a club as one of the most transformational surprises in their academic careers. 

"You are who you choose to be."

—Hogarth Hughes, The Iron Giant

And it's not all about academics. Joining a club, any club, can provide personal, professional and even health benefits for every student. It isn't just about filling your schedule; it’s about preparing for your favorite future.

What Kinds of Clubs Are There?

Choose from 120+ Clubs at Fredonia

Everything you can imagine! From the Accounting Society to the Writer's Ring—Fredonia Women's Rugby to the Video Game Orchestra—you're bound to find your fit! Most clubs and student organizations at Fredonia fall into a few common categories:

• Academic and Pre-professional Clubs These clubs are perfect for career-focused growth. They offer networking opportunities, industry insights, and practical experiences related to your field of study.
• Cultural and Interest-based Clubs For personal enjoyment and exploration, cultural and interest-based clubs are ideal. They allow you to explore new cultures, hobbies, and interests, enriching your college experience.
• Community Service Clubs If giving back to the community is important to you, community service clubs provide a platform to make a positive impact. These clubs engage in various service projects that can be both fulfilling and enlightening.

The Importance of College Involvement

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Getting involved in student life at Fredonia is more than just a fun diversion from your studies—it's a vital part of your overall progress as a critical thinker and community member. Participating in activities helps you gain experiences that textbooks alone can't offer, fostering a well-rounded education, contributing to your intellectual, emotional, and social growth. In fact, studies have shown that students who actively participate in extracurricular activities tend to have higher academic performance and better emotional well-being. Some of these social benefits include:

Making New Friends in College

Almost every new student is concerned about making new friends. College clubs create the ideal natural platforms where you can meet peers with similar interests and passions. Whether it's an academic club, a music group, or an eco-friendly organization, these clubs create an environment where friendships can bloom.

Building a Social Support Network

Beyond making friends, joining clubs also helps you build a robust social support network. This network becomes your go-to for emotional and psychological support, providing a sense of belonging and community. The shared experiences and mutual interests foster tight-knit relationships that often last beyond college years.

"I've met a lot of people in clubs and organizations whom I wouldn't know otherwise. It's really cool to meet people who are so encouraging for you to try new things. You never know what opportunities you might bump into or who you might connect with."

—Rebekah Gerace, '27

Personal Development Through College Clubs

Participating in college clubs at Fredonia plays an integral role in personal development. Joining a club—even one outside your major—provides enormous opportunities to develop your leadership skills, enhance your ability to work in teams, and build self-confidence. Through various activities and responsibilities, you gain practical experiences that are invaluable for personal and professional growth.

• Leadership Opportunities Taking on leadership roles within clubs is an excellent way to develop leadership skills. Whether you're organizing events, leading meetings, or managing club finances, these roles provide practical experience that can’t be replicated in classrooms. Leadership roles also teach you decision-making, problem-solving, and strategic thinking.
• Discovering New Interests Exploring various clubs can help you discover new hobbies and passions. You might join the Fun & Logic Club and discover a passion for puzzles, or the Improv Collective and put your passions on the stage. The possibilities are endless, and each new interest can lead to personal fulfillment and growth.
• Improve Communication Skills Effective communication is a vital skill in both personal and professional settings. College clubs provide numerous opportunities to practice and enhance these skills. Whether it's public speaking, writing newsletters, or negotiating with vendors, the experiences gained will improve your ability to communicate clearly and confidently.

Career Preparation and Professional Growth

Joining college clubs offers various advantages that significantly enhance your overall college experience. Through these clubs, you can expand your social network, build lasting friendships, and receive emotional support. Additionally, participation in club activities aids in personal development by fostering leadership skills, discovering new interests, and improving communication abilities. These experiences collectively contribute to both personal fulfillment and professional growth, preparing you for future career challenges.

• Build Your Resume Listing extracurricular activities on your resume boosts employability by showcasing initiative, time management, and a well-rounded character. Evidence suggests building soft skills like leadership, communication, and critical thinking also increases one's employability.
• College Networking Start building a professional network early. By connecting with peers, alumni, and industry professionals, you gain invaluable resources for job hunting and career advice.
• Enhancing Your Academic Performance Boost your academic success by improving time management, increasing community engagement, and enhancing your overall learning experience.

Are There Personal Benefits to Joining a Club?

Yes! Joining clubs in college can have significant personal health benefits. Participating in club activities can reduce stress, improve mental well-being, and encourage a more active lifestyle, all of which contribute to overall health and wellness.

Stress Reduction in College

College life can be stressful, with a constant barrage of assignments, exams, and deadlines. Participation in clubs provides a much-needed break from academic pressures. Engaging in activities you enjoy can reduce stress levels and contribute to your overall well-being.

Improved Time Management

Balancing club activities with coursework is a skill that will serve you well throughout your life. Prioritize your tasks, create a schedule, and stick to it. Learning to manage your time effectively ensures that you can enjoy the best of both worlds—excelling academically while being actively involved in campus life.

How Do I Find a Club To Join?

Finding the right club for you at SUNY Fredonia might seem overwhelming at first. The easiest way to start is by attending Activities Nights, where club representatives meet and greet interested students. Missed Activities Night? No worries—you're always welcome to show up to a meeting and ask for more information. In fact, don’t hesitate to attend a few meetings of different clubs to see which one aligns with your interests and goals. Joining a club is often as easy as showing up to a meeting and expressing your interest.

If you have questions about student activities on campus, please contact the Office of Campus Life at 716-673-3143.

Ready To Make the Most of the Next Four Years?

Step out, get involved, and watch your Fredonia experience transform in the most exciting ways possible!