Collegian file photo
By Jalyn Sneed/reporter
Adjusting to higher-level academics, balancing work with school and meeting new people can be a lot to juggle for first-time college students.
Rebecca Reyes, who was home-schooled before attending NE, admits to being nervous when she started at TCC.
“I was hesitant at first,” she said.
But Reyes found her place when she became involved in various campus clubs.
“It’s been an incredible experience,” she said. “I’ve made a lot of friends. I have a strong support group, and being involved has made college more fun.”
Reyes, who is Student Ambassadors president, SGA secretary and a Phi Theta Kappa member, said, “Being involved helped me build confidence and gave me a push.”
According to U.S. News & World Report, getting involved on campus is beneficial: It helps students become connected to school, build community, discover passions and strengths and builds their resumes.
SE student Rachelle Olemga, who is a part of several campus clubs such as Learning Differently, African Culture and TCC Christians on Campus, said her club experiences gave her a positive college outlook.
“It’s helped me realize how social I am,” she said.
By being involved in clubs, Olemga said she benefited from networking with peers.
“I’ve met people and gained relationships,’” she said. “I’ve also discovered that networking is made possible through your connections, and it looks good on your college resume.”
Involvement on campus not only allows students to become more invested in their schools but also reduces dropout levels, according to College Bound Network.
“Studies show that students who become involved on campus are more likely to finish their degree,” SE student activities coordinator Amy Staley said.
SE student Paris Riggs said she had a rewarding experience in TCC organizations. As a campus ambassador and a part of Student Leadership Academy, Riggs said she enjoys the drive that it gives her to achieve in school.
“I strive to do my best because people are pushing me to do my best,” she said. “The workers in student activities have become mentors for me. I’ve learned a lot and have gotten out of my comfort zone. In the long run, it’s beneficial, and I’m motivated to get things done.”
Students can get involved in clubs on campus through several avenues.
“Students can view a list of TCC clubs and organizations on Blackboard,” Staley said. “They can also visit student activities.”
