Have you thought about how much being involved could affect your chances of getting hired once you graduate? Maybe you think your schedule is too demanding to be involved in anything other than classes and studying, because trying to find balance between three or four classes can be enough of a struggle. However, joining a club or organization and being involved in something other than just courses required for graduation and your major can benefit you greatly.
According to an article in The Atlantic, employers listed internships, jobs, volunteering and extracurricular activities as the most important top non-academic elements when looking to hire recent college graduates.
Samantha Yorke, assistant director of undergraduate student success, said, “When it comes down to interviews in the future, being well-rounded is going to set you apart.”
If you are a biology major, that’s great — but consider being involved in more than just the Beta Beta Beta Biological Honor Society. That’s what Nahomi Guzman, sophomore biology major who works in the front office of Student Media, did.
“Being involved outside my major is important to me because it forces me to get out of my comfort zone,” said Guzman. “Student media has taught me a lot about communication, which is completely different than courses I take for biology.”
OK, OK, so maybe student media isn’t your thing. NSU also has several opportunities to rush for a fraternity or a sorority. Joining one can be a great way to meet new people and make lifelong friends. Aside from making new friends, Greek life also provides students with the opportunity to be involved with charitable organizations and the community. This can help you learn about the community outside NSU.
Since fraternities and sororities aren’t for everyone, here are some other options that might work for you:
- Volunteer with a local charity or organization — you can find an extensive list of local organizations and charities at org/city/fort-lauderdale/FL/
- Join a local church
- Look for an on-campus or off-campus job
These four years can go by faster than you think and before you know it, you may be a senior without experience in other areas aside from your major. Being involved, even for just an hour or two a week, will help you build skills your future employers will be looking for in a potential candidate.
“Getting involved outside your major helps you explore who you are and college is the time to do that. It will also help to develop transferable skills by being involved,” said Yorke.
So, do yourself a favor and find something to be involved in and excel in it. You will thank yourself when you are able to showcase your experiences on your resume.
