Perks of joining a student association

There are many different kinds of student associations, those organising parties, doing sports, discussing literature, and so on. Extracurricular activities like these can be an incredibly enriching experience for students. Research indicates that it can equip students with valuable skills that also extend beyond graduation. Below, we highlight a few examples.

Personal growth

Taking part in a student association offers an excellent opportunity to improve certain skills. Exposure to different people, tasks, and responsibilities can help develop creativity, problem-solving, and improved communication. By engaging in different activities, members not only enhance their soft skills but also gain a deeper understanding of their strengths and areas for improvement.

A break from your studies

Being a student can be challenging, especially during exam periods. Participating in a student association allows you to take a break from studying and engage in activities that promote well-being and fun. Whether it's an outdoor trip or a campus event, participating in extracurricular activities provides some much-needed downtime that can help you de-stress and recharge. However, even fun activities can cause stress. Take your time to reflect on what makes you feel good to not let your engagement just be a burden, balance is key.

Connections

The connections made in student associations can be the beginning of a lifelong friendship or an important professional network. Being an active part of a group activity enables you to meet new people, engage in discussions, and collaborate on projects. These relationships can be valuable both in terms of finding ways into your future career or bonding with people who share common interests and values.

A boosted resume

Additionally, participation in a student association can be an excellent way to build a compelling resume. Gain experience in skills such as leadership, initiative and teamwork. As a member of an association, you can include your involvement, the roles you played and the projects you have done as part of your resume or CV, making you stand out more in a competitive job market.

Memories

Finally, being an active part of a student association can provide some unforgettable experiences and memories. It can be from festivals, weekly book circles, competitions and so on. The memories created during these times can remain with you for a lifetime and can be the foundation of a sense of belonging and pride in your time at the university.

But what if there is no association that interests me on my campus? - Well, it’s a perfect opportunity for you to create a new one then! Talk to your nearest student union, they will surely be happy to support you in getting started.

In conclusion, joining a student association offers valuable prospects for personal growth, some time off from your studies, forming connections, gaining experience and creating cherished memories. Moreover, these opportunities contribute to enhancing the overall university experience, making it more fulfilling and meaningful for years to come.

Sources

Thompson, L. J., Clark, G., Walker, M., & Whyatt, J. D. (2013). ‘It’s just like an extra string to your bow’: Exploring higher education students’ perceptions and experiences of extracurricular activity and employability. SAGE Publications. DOI: 10.1177/1469787413481129

Mukesh, H.V., Acharya, V. and Pillai, R. (2023), "Are extracurricular activities stress busters to enhance students’ well-being and academic performance? Evidence from a natural experiment", Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, Vol. 15 No. 1, pp. 152-168. DOI:10.1108/JARHE-06-2021-0240