While the college experience might start in the classroom, it certainly doesn’t end there! There’s more to student life than just attending classes and acing exams. One invaluable—and sometimes overlooked—part of the college experience is getting involved with student organizations on campus.  

Here are just a few reasons why you should round out your college experience by getting involved on campus.  
  
Connections and Community: Between time management, studying, projects and exams, college can be overwhelming at times. This is especially true for first-year students and those living off campus. Joining a student organization helps fend off feelings of overwhelm and isolation by providing an immediate sense of belonging. It’s an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share your interests, values and goals. Some of these connections can evolve into lifelong friendships and support networks—and maybe even open the doors to career connections before graduation!  

Skill Enhancement and Resume Building: Speaking of career connections, student organizations aren’t just for socializing—they're also great platforms for fine-tuning career skills! Employers value experience and academic achievements when considering potential hires. Active involvement in student organizations is a great way to showcase your leadership, teamwork and organizational skills. Mount Mary has clubs for food science, fashion, occupational therapy, art therapy—and more! No matter what your interests are, these groups offer hands-on experiences that complement classroom learning with professional development.  
  
Networking Opportunities: The connections you make within student organizations go way beyond the campus. Many groups have ties to industry professionals, alumni networks or related organizations. These connections can open doors to internships, job opportunities and mentorship, laying the groundwork for career success before graduation!  
  
Diversity and Inclusion: Mount Mary has a number of clubs that reflect our richly diverse campus. The Black Student Union, Hispanic Professionals of Greater Milwaukee, Asian Student Organization and Prism (a LGBTQ+ inclusive group) are among those active. These groups connect others with a shared cultural experience while providing valuable support to members.   
  
Student organizations and clubs are not just optional add-ons to your college experience; they are important for personal and professional development. By actively participating in these groups, you’re not just earning a degree—you’re building a foundation for a well-rounded, fulfilling life beyond the classroom. So, don’t hesitate to explore the many opportunities that your campus offers. Your future self will thank you! 

Visit mtmary.edu/clubs to see a full list of the student clubs and organizations at Mount Mary.