by: Dallas Hodge
Want to get more out of your time at SIU? Joining a Registered Student Organization (RSO) is a great way to meet new people, build leadership skills, and make a difference on campus. Whether you’re looking to find your community or just try something new, getting involved can completely change your college experience. Keep reading to find out why joining an RSO might be one of the best moves you make!
1. Build Strong Connections and Friendships
College can be stressful with classes, work, and exams, but you have to remember that it’s a time for personal growth and building connections that will last a lifetime. Joining an RSO allows you to meet people with the same interests as you, and form lifelong friendships. Some of the people I met as a Freshman in my many RSOs have helped me tremendously and got me in the position I am today!
2. Develop Leadership Skills & Expand Your Network
One of the biggest benefits of joining an RSO is the opportunity to build professional connections and develop leadership skills. You can take on leadership roles, collaborate with peers, and improve skills like decision-making, problem-solving, and communication. Networking through RSOs can also lead to internships, job opportunities, and mentor-ships that support your post-college journey.
3. Boost Your Personal Growth
Being involved in an RSO can help you grow as an individual. Stepping outside my comfort zone was something especially big for me! It allowed me to try new things, and challenge myself in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Whether you’re collaborating with a diverse team of students or exploring new opportunities, you’ll gain confidence and versatility, enhancing both your personal growth and future career.
4. Pursue Your Passions Outside of the Classroom
While academic studies are important, it’s equally important to engage in activities that reflect your interests and passions. From academic clubs to cultural organizations, sports teams, and service groups, SIU provides a wide variety of RSOs. You can enhance your college experience by joining an RSO that shares your interests, allowing you to develop additional skills outside of the classroom.
5. Make a Positive Impact on Campus and Beyond
Making an impact in whatever I do has been a passion of mine since high school, and SIU students are known for their commitment to giving back—especially to the city of Carbondale. Many RSOs I’ve been a part of focus on expanding knowledge beyond the classroom through activities like community cleanups, reading to kids in local schools, and hosting events for students to enjoy. These efforts are great ways to give back and leave a lasting impact on both SIU and the Carbondale community. If you’re interested in leaving a legacy at SIU, get involved with an RSO and make it happen.
6. Improve Time Management
Balancing my RSOs on top of school, work, and Track and Field practice, can be very challenging, but it’s helped me learn to manage my time wisely. Scheduling my days, prioritizing tasks, and breaking big projects into smaller steps help me stay organized. I use a digital calendar to keep track of my classes, practices, RSO meetings, and deadlines, which helps me stay organized and on top of everything. Being involved with RSOs forces you to juggle multiple commitments, helping you to prioritize tasks and stay organized. These skills are essential for your college and future career.
7. Access to Resources and Support
In addition to fostering personal development, RSOs provide numerous resources and support to help students succeed academically, advance their careers, and engage in extracurricular activities. They offer things such as access to mentorship, special events, and campus resources, but it’s bigger than that. Being a part of an RSO brings you into a family of people who genuinely care about you and your interests. Joining an RSO at Southern Illinois University is one of the best decisions you can make for your college experience. It’s an avenue of creating lasting connections, learning important skills, and improving your community. The advantages go well beyond graduation, and there are countless chances for both career and personal development.
So, what are you waiting for? Find an RSO that aligns with your passions and take that first step toward making the most of your time at SIU!
