A: Student organizations have a proven track record of boosting academic achievement, increasing sense of belonging, forming deep friendships, and growing networking opportunities. Those involved in student organizations often find their academic workload becomes easier to manage due to strong support structures and increased access to resources such as study partners and those who have previously taken classes. Student organizations also provide transferrable skills to students such as time management, organization, leadership, public speaking, and budgeting, among others.

Being involved is the best way to ensure student success at Missouri S&T. With so many benefits of being involved and many opportunities to do so, we encourage each student to find their home through student organizations.

A: The time commitment required for student organizations differs drastically depending on the organization. Some organizations like the St. Pat's Board, design teams, and fraternities & sororities are very time consuming and may require daily commitments. Other organizations require very little interaction. It is best to consult with the organization's leadership to determine what the time and energy commitment looks like for the specific organization.

A: Many student organizations are free to join and participate in. Other organizations, such as fraternities & sororities and competitive organizations, may charge dues to fund operations and programs. There is no universal financial commitment to join an organization, so it is best to discuss the commitment with an organization's leadership when considering joining.

A: Organizations recruit new members at different points throughout the year. Some organizations, such as fraternities & sororities, host formal recruitment processes during times when new students begin their academics, while others recruit year-round. Those interested in joining a specific organization should reach out to the specific organization for information about how to join.

Student Involvement hosts two involvement fairs known as MinerRama and Spring O'Rama in the fall and spring of each academic year. These events host more than 100 student organizations to recruit students to join the organization. These are the best way to learn more about the best opportunities to get involved.

A: Student Involvement recommends that students search for 1-3 student organizations to join that they can give their all to. Many students join multiple organizations and find their time and energy stretched too thin to participate in a meaningful way. By focusing on just a handful of organizations to join, students are able to fully commit and provide their all to those organizations rather than simply joining and not taking away anything meaningful.

Many students find that their time being involved is best spent by following the ASN principle. ASN stands for Academic, Social, and Niche, and provides a great framework for helping students navigate the complex issues of college and life beyond. Academic organizations help students find others in a similar area of study to learn and study with and provide opportunities to grow their network before beginning their career. Social organizations help students make friendships and have fun while enduring the stresses of academics. Niche organizations offer the opportunity to connect with colleagues sharing unique hobbies, interests, and ideas. Focusing on joining one of each and generating meaningful time in each organization is a great way to ensure students are academically focused, having fun, and staying connected to their personal interests.

A: With more than 200+ student organizations and activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Missouri S&T. For students interested in an opportunity that does not yet exist, consider starting a new student organization.

A: Starting a new student organization is a straightforward and structured process. Students interested in starting a new student organization should reach out to the Peer Involvement Advisors for guidance and assistance through the organization registration process.