Nigel Cares: Connect and get involved

By David G. Michener
Director of Student Involvement

Last year was unlike anything we have experienced before. As a result, we will have two sets of first-year students (incoming freshmen and returning sophomores) who will experience the traditional, on-campus college experience for the first time.

We are excited about the transition back to in-person activities because it creates more opportunities for student life and familiarization with campus resources.

But why should you get involved?

Getting involved and creating connections with others increases your chances of being successful in college, but more importantly, it creates a greater sense of belonging.

For some of you, being in a new environment that includes changing COVID-19 rules can be a frightening and uncomfortable experience. At times, it feels as if you have too much on your plate. Building rapport on campus, including with your fellow students and instructors, helps smooth the path and makes college life a lot simpler. Below are the five best positive reasons to get involved and make friends on campus: 

1. Mix & match. The first six weeks of transitioning to UNG are critical to a student's campus adjustment. Participation in student organizations enriches your college experience while helping you expand and explore shared interests. The Office of Student Involvement is excited about the student connection system in UNG Connect, your one-stop student engagement platform. Once enabled, the system walks you through completing your interest profile and connecting to others.
2. Engage with diverse groups of people. Although students in your organization share your interests, it also is important to interact with students who represent diverse backgrounds, cultures and perspectives. Understanding how various people respond to certain situations develops your abilities in presenting and implementing ideas.
3. Opportunity to build Your skillset. Student organizations help you acquire "hard skills" you may not learn in class. Creating and building relationships with external vendors, inventory control, funding reports and business analytics are all valuable concentrated skills. You also can expand your collaboration and leadership skills within a structured student organization and develop your UNG Co-Curricular Transcript "My CCT."
4. Work with a team. Understanding how to perform well with a team is an essential skill for any occupation. Student organizations put you in circumstances where you are compelled to take guidance or instruction from others, as well as give your own. Joining a registered student organization builds your network and personal brand and provides additional "soft skills" or people skills.
5. You will have fun! Another simple reason to join a student organization is to have fun. Meeting new people, making new friends, and participating in activities helps you make the most of your Nighthawk experience.

Please contact me at david.michener@ung.edu or 678-717-3847 with any questions or ways I can better assist you. Have a wonderful fall semester!