Edwin DayLet’s face it. Covid has made the past few years nearly impossible for international students to simply fly over to the US/UK/etc. and go on a whirlwind college tour that many students like to do in order to get a sense of a university’s culture and community prior to attending. And if we’re being honest, how much does “community” matter to you when compared to a university’s rank? My personal belief is that 9 out of 10 of you would choose to attend a university over another based on its rank versus any perceived advantages of its community and its “fit.”
And that’s okay, because in reality, the “community” aspect of universities is much more based on what you make of it rather than any ethereal vibe or feeling you soak in during any in-person visit. So, for this blog post, I’m not going to focus on how to judge a campus’s community feel as a way to decide where you want to apply or attend. Instead, I’m going to focus on what you can do to make the most of a campus’s community once you’re already there, irrespective of which university you ultimately attend.
Community Service
Join a student organization dedicated to service, or contribute to a singular project. Not only will participating in community service in college build your CV and make you feel good for giving back to your community, but it’s a way to take you outside the classroom, meet new people who share similar interests, and help you become more familiar with the neighborhood and/or city surrounding your campus. All these things help with networking and giving you access to more resources overall.
Pre-Professional Organizations
Student organizations like the “Asia Business Association” or “Society of Female Engineers” offer interesting activities and events that have to do with future professions you may be interested in. Networking with others in the same or a similar major to yours is an excellent way to learn from upperclassmen and build your own personal support network. Learn from others who have dealt with the same scheduling, professor and course issues you are going through right now. Outside of the campus, you will also learn about various conferences and expert lecturers in a variety of fields.
Join a Fraternity / Sorority
If you’re not the super social/partying type, a “going Greek” may not be for you, but it’s hard to argue against that by joining a fraternity or sorority you will definitely gain access to some more structured social activities and loyal alumni networks if that’s what you’re looking for. Oftentimes, lifelong relationships are forged when living in the fraternity/sorority house, and such relationships can help make a huge campus feel a little smaller.
Participate In Research
Don’t forget about the main reason why you’re in college in the first place....academics! Research projects need research assistants, so such opportunities can help give you a better idea of the kind of research your university produces while further padding your resume.
Residence Life
If you live in the dorms, odds are, there will be some kind of residential student government. Perhaps you can take the lead on some dorm recycling or peer tutoring program. This helps you make connections with people who live just a stone’s throw away from you.
Campus Social Events
Movie nights, arts and crafts, broomball, dances, etc. Most universities will have a plethora of social events beyond the typical crazy college parties. Keep an eye out for promotional materials around campus and don’t be afraid to attend. Odds are, others will also attend looking for the same sort of connection(s) you are as well.
Performances & Special Lectures
Universities love to have guest lecturers like authors, actors, activists, politicians, etc. Such guests can add a lot to the overall diversity of campus life. Go to ones that interest you, and maybe you’ll find your future bestie sitting right next to you!
Intramural/Club Sports
Club and intramural sports teams at universities are much more about camaraderie and physical fitness than competition. There’s a sport for everyone, and I mean it! Ever wanted to play Quidditch from Harry Potter?
A last piece of advice: Just keep your eyes and ears open. Peruse the flyers tacked onto bulletin boards at the quad, and read announcements in the school newspaper. Student unions will also make public their daily schedules. Just by being aware and open to different opportunities, of which there’ll be PLENTY, you’ll be filling your schedule, meeting new friends and making other valuable connections in no time!