Leadership Handout Series

HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT GROUP FOR YOU

The University‚ as a part of its educational mission‚ supports and encourages participation in co-curricular activities as an integral part of your total education. The advantage of attending Miami’s large campus is the hundreds of diverse opportunities that are offered each year. In addition to campus life‚ the community of Oxford has many additional opportunities for participation and service. Whether you wish to explore a new activity‚ widen your circle of friends‚ or promote knowledge of a cause‚ there is probably an organization in existence to suit you. If there isn’t‚ you may want to think about starting your own.

Being a member of a student organization enriches your years at Miami University in many ways. The good friends and good times help transform what is sometimes a large overwhelming institution into a place you can call “home”. Student organizations also give you opportunities to explore new interests‚ develop skills‚ enhance your academic program‚ and have an impact on the University community. Get involved! Join a student organization! However‚ with over 300 organizations on campus you may be wondering how to find the best group for you?

You’ve made a good start by beginning the investigation process here. We have helpful staff and lots of information to start you on your way. Our advice is to first consider:

WHAT'S IMPORTANT TO ME?

Ask yourself some of these questions:

• What am I looking for in an organization?
• Do I primarily want to make new friends?
• Do I want to work on something I believe in?
• Do I want to explore something new?
• Should I be in a group that relates to my major or career choice?
• Do I want a real break from my academics?
• Shall I continue an interest from high school?
• Do I want to be of real service to the campus or community?
• Do I want to help make things happen?
• How much time do I have for an organization?
• Are there financial considerations?

WHAT KIND OF GROUPS ARE THERE?

Miami University’s Student Organizations consist of a variety of people‚ ideas and concerns. There are numerous organizations in each of the following categories:

• Career Related
• Honorary
• Publications
• Cultural
• Military Related
• Religious
• Fine Arts
• Peer Educators
• Service
• Governmental
• Programming
• Special Interest
• Graduate Students
• Public Interest
• Sports
• Greek

HOW DO I GET MORE INFORMATION?

The Office of Student Activities & Leadership annually publishes The Campus and Community Resource Guide. This publication offers a short description of each registered organization.

CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP OFFICES

• Office of Student Activities & Leadership - 529-2266
• Associated Student Government - 529-6019
• Office of Greek Affairs - 529-1462
• Office of Commuter and Transfer Programs - 529-3431
• Office of Student Leadership & Service Learning- 529-2961
• Office of Recreational Sports - 529-6868
• Office of Residence Life - 529-4000

PUBLICATIONS

• Miami Memos
• The Campus & Community Resource Guide
• The Miami Student
• Student Organization Resource Guide
• The New Student Record
• The Arena
• The Voice (ASG)

OTHER HELPFUL PEOPLE AND RESOURCES

• Resident Directors
• Professors
• Resident Advisors
• Classmates
• Peer Advisors
• Chalk Boards
• Kiosks
• Bulletin Boards
• Showcases
• Table Tents
• Members of Organizations
• Miami Vine
• Student Activities Fair
• Banners
• Shriver Design

HOW DO I TAKE THE PLUNGE?

First of all‚ remember that most organizations are far more nervous about recruiting you than you may be about joining them. They really do want new members and are very eager to answer your questions and explain their activities and purposes.

Many groups have “Informational Meetings” at the beginning of each term. These are open to any interested student. You’re under no obligation to join the group if you attend — it’s simply a chance to get more information and for the group to learn of your interest. If you miss this meeting or find out about a group during the year‚ call a contact person and ask when the next meeting is. If meeting times and programs are posted‚ you can always assume you're welcome. Of course‚ some organizations‚ such as honoraries‚ fraternities and sororities‚ have selected memberships‚ so be sure to find out the particulars in those cases.

Once you’ve joined an organization‚ don’t just sit back and wait for something to happen. Introduce yourself to people‚ ask questions‚ express ideas‚ and be sure to volunteer your time and energy. Remember‚ you won’t be truly involved with a specific group and feel like you belong unless you’re a contributing member.

Also‚ if you are considering running for a leadership position within a student organization or would just like to become more informed on the group process‚ the staff of the Office of Student Activities & Leadership recommends that you refer to the other topics in the Leadership Handout Series.