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ILLINI UNION
Get Involved at the Illini Union! The Benefits of Participation
Laurel Reed Rosch — Associate Director, Illini Union
WHAT DOES “GET INVOLVED” MEAN?
You may have heard that it is important for students
to get involved while in college. But many people are unsure of exactly what this means or what steps to take to become involved. While academic studies should be one’s primary purpose in attending the University of Illinois, there is still much to be learned by taking advantage
of the many opportunities outside of the classroom. Through participation in activities such as membership
in a student organization, internships, recreational
sports, on-campus employment, residential life, and faculty research, students gain valuable skills that will complement their academic education and make them a well-rounded individual.
WHY GET INVOLVED?
Involvement is the best way for students to get to know the university and to understand that they are a valuable part of the University of Illinois community. Those who are involved tend to develop relationships with other students as well as with faculty and administrators, resulting in connections that will be important to
their college success. A national survey of more than 260,000 freshmen and seniors at 523 four-year colleges and universities found that students who participate in collaborative learning and educational activities outside the classroom are more satisfied with their education
and are more likely to remain in college (National Survey of Student Engagement, 2006).
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INVOLVEMENT TIPS
The University of Illinois has more than 1,400 student organizations on campus and offers even more involve- ment opportunities for your student. The vastness of these numbers may seem overwhelming and may keep some students from committing themselves to something outside of class. But it doesn’t have to if your student keeps some key guidelines in mind when making decisions:
• Choose opportunities that interest them. From time to time, students may be tempted to join
a group or apply for a position because it seems that everyone else is doing it.
• Don’t be afraid to try something new.
• Find a balance. Research shows that more involvement leads to more benefits; however, it is important not to overdo it.
• Don’t take on new activities all at once. Taking on too much at one time can lead to burn out.
• Don’t feel limited to one type of involvement. There is a wide variety of great opportunities
outside of the classroom.
For more information, visit union.illinois.edu or the RSO office in the Illini Union, Room 284.
Illini Family Resource Guide IlliniFamilyResource Guid e