What does it mean to “get involved” on campus?

Students at the Org FairThis may mean more than you think, and the answer is as unique as the individual! Elon offers many opportunities for involvement through a wide range of activities, including:

  • more than 250 student organizations and campus programs
  • academic honoraries
  • spirituality groups and organizations
  • student government
  • social fraternities and sororities
  • club sports
  • intramurals
  • on-campus employment
  • residence hall and neighborhood activities
  • volunteerism and service learning
  • student media
  • performing arts
  • entertainment … and much more!

Why should I get involved on campus?

When you get involved in student activities, you have the opportunity to:

  • develop leadership skills
  • become connected to Elon (feeling a sense of “place”)
  • make a difference on and off campus
  • gain a sense of achievement
  • make new friends
  • enjoy a variety of experiences
  • impress potential employers and graduate schools
  • have fun!

How do I get involved?

You can begin by asking yourself the following questions:

  • What are my current areas of interest?
  • What is important to me?
  • What are my passions?
  • Where can I best contribute my skills and talents?
  • What am I looking to gain from this experience?
  • What activity best fits my schedule and availability?

Remember that most student organizations and campus programs are actively seeking new members and are very eager to explain their activities and purpose! Please visit PhoenixCONNECT for more information on getting ‘connected’.

How much is enough?

Only YOU can answer this question. Here are a few helpful things to remember:

  • Your first priority is academics (classes, projects, and assignments).
  • Your activities should complement what you are doing in the classroom, not compete with them. That’s why we call them CO-curricular activities as opposed to EXTRA-curricular activities.
  • You should be having fun.
  • You should be learning! If you aren’t having fun and learning, you might want to reconsider your commitments.
  • Don’t commit unless you’re sure you have the time to follow through.
  • Take your time. Be choosy. Try to imagine how your activities will fit into your schedule and your life.
  • Be honest with yourself and others about how much you really can balance.

Organization Fairs

Elon’s annual Organization Fairs are held at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters. At the fairs, you can expect to find representatives from organizations on campus looking to provide information and recruit new members.

The Fall Organization Fair is scheduled for Thursday, August 24 from 6:00-8:00pm on Young Commons (rain date: Friday, August 25 from 4:00-6:00pm). Remember that most student organizations are actively seeking new members and are very eager to explain their activities and purpose. Ask questions and step outside of your comfort zone, but remember that you do not need to join every organization that matches your interests and goals. Focus on one or two organizations and reevaluate your involvement after your first six weeks on campus. Please visit PhoenixCONNECT for more details about the upcoming organization fair.

Forming a New Student Organization

While Elon has over 250 recognized student organizations, there are always opportunities for students to explore the possibility of developing a new organization. Student Involvement staff are here to assist students in the process. For more details about the new organization development process and timelines, please visit the Student Organization Handbook. If you have any questions about this process, feel free to contact Student Involvement at studentinvolvement@elon.edu or 336-278-7214, or stop by Moseley 205.