We can all agree that your time as a university student is about more than just studying. It is a time to meet new people, make meaningful connections, and develop yourself personally and professionally. What is a better way to do this than by getting involved on campus? Opportunities are everywhere, but they can be challenging to navigate when you don’t know where to look. But no need to worry! The following tips can help you along the way of making the most out of your time at university.
Join Associations
Although this is somewhat stating the obvious, it goes without question that associations are a great place to meet new people both within and outside your studies. Lucky for us, EUR has many associations, so there is something out there for everyone! Whether you choose to only attend the events, join a committee or even the board, associations are a great place for people with similar interests to get together. In terms of time commitment, committee positions are tailored to fit alongside your study schedule. As for board positions, some associations offer them part-time while others offer full-time positions, so this is worth considering to find out which would be the best fit for you!
Participatory Bodies
Participatory bodies are the hidden gems of campus involvement! The university provides three kinds of participatory bodies. First, each department has a Programme Committee, then on a faculty level there is the Faculty Council and lastly, for university-wide decisions, there is the—you guessed it—University Council. As a student member in any of these participatory bodies, you get to represent the student voice and help create the community you want to see. It is a place for you to ask questions and critically reflect on executive decisions, as well as to propose new policies or ways of doing things! Not only do you get a front-row seat to the behind-the-scenes of the university, but also make an impact on your own education and create change for the better.
Think Big!
Do you have any really cool ideas for clubs, associations, or projects but can’t find anything on campus that fits the bill? Gather some friends and take matters into your own hands! This might seem like a daunting task, but all initiatives have to start somewhere. EUR happily promotes student innovation projects. You can request practical as well as financial support at Students-for-Students to make your idea a reality. By doing so, you can share your passion with other students and create your own community. Besides, it is a great way to leave your mark on the university even after you finish your studies. Be the change you want to see at university!
If anything, make sure to keep your eyes and ears open. Follow your favorite associations on social media, keep an eye on your student email, and get inspired by what other students are doing through LinkedIn. Cool opportunities to get involved within the university are everywhere, as long as you know where to look. Together, we get to make our university the best it can be.
Author: Anisha de Vries
Editor: Gwendolyne Cheung
Illustrator: Roos de Waard