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After an exciting club rush, you've joined one and are now attending its first meeting! You listen to the club leaders introduce themselves and explain what the club is about. All of a sudden, everyone is socializing, and you're still seated, wondering:
What should you do now that you're part of this club? How should you interact with the other members, and how involved should you be?
Make the most out of your membership with these 4 tips!
#1: Build relationships with other members
When you join a club, you join a group of people who share the same beliefs, interests, or values as you.
Clubs and organizations are designed to build community among like-minded people, especially if the club is based on promoting culture or professional development.
Use this opportunity to connect andbuild relationshipswith others.
Creating and maintaining relationships with other club members is beneficial as you can:
Expand your network with friends and professionals (collect numbers and emails)
Engage with diverse and like-minded people (chat and learn from others)
Unwind and have fun after a busy schedule (join socials and make friends)
So be open to making new friends. Introduce yourself and watch your circle grow!
#2: Get involved with the club's activities and events
Open yourself up to activities and events in and outside of the club meetings! Join your group for game nights, dinners out, and field trips. These are great bonding times to get to know fellow members on a more casual and fun level.
Some activities and events you can participate in include:
Networking events
Skill/sport practices
Volunteer opportunities
Weekend hangouts
Don't be afraid to initiate events! Invite a few members out, or suggest an activity to the club leader. The club is a community, so make your experiences with them meaningful.
#3: Contribute to the club's cause and community
Perform acts of service towards your club's mission and your fellow club members! Use your time in the club to create a positive impact on others. Whether or not you are part of a charity or volunteer organization, you can make a difference.
There are many ways for you to give back:
Volunteer for club events and service projects
Donate unused items and food to your club or a local drive
Mentor and support younger and newer club members, especially if they are just starting off their college career
Acts of service show your spirit and how much you care, so let your actions represent your best self and what you can do for others.
Quiz
Kiara wants to give back to her rowing club. She is an excellent rower who loves to meet new members. Based on her background, what are some of the best ways she can give back? Select all that apply:
Recruiting new people during club rushes and teaching new rowers about the sport are great ways for Kiara to interact with new people. These opportunities allow her to share her passion for rowing with others, which would contribute to the club's spirit and morale. Organizing social events is also a great way to give back as it encourages new and old members to connect. While writing and sending alumni newsletters is a great act of service, it may not fit Kiara's profile as someone who enjoys working with new people.
#4: Consider taking a leadership position
Once you've spent some time in the club getting to know its mission and members, expand your impact by becoming a leader.
You have the power to influence and inspire others to create and share your club's passions and services. Use your knowledge and experience with the club to lead your club towards greater goals.
Leadership can take many roles, including:
Running for club board (president, secretary, publicity, etc.)
Coordinating and managing volunteer events
No matter how you choose to lead, know that you're making a difference in the lives of others!
Take Action
Your club is your network of friends who have the same values and interests as you, so make the most out of your community!
Getting involved in a club will help you grow as a person, whether you choose to lead and represent your club as a board member or build a club family with your closest friends.
Make the best memories with your club experiences:
This Byte has been authored by
Emily Nguy
Science Teacher