With 170 clubs and organizations at WSU, it’s easy to become enthusiastic about getting involved on campus. Joining a club looks great on a resume, no doubt, and it’s a good way to make friends. Most importantly—it’s fun! Before you get overwhelmed by all your options, though, consider this blog post as your WSU club guidebook.
Photo by Ka Vang ’16
Do Your Research and Go to the Club Fairs
The best way to find out about what clubs are offered is by visiting a club fair. There are two club fairs held every year during New Student Orientation and Homecoming Week.
You can also look online for a specific organization by visiting the WSU Club Directory. Most clubs have a page on the WSU website or can be reached on Facebook.
Photo by Amy Nelson ’20
Don’t Be Shy! Ask for More Information
Typically, club fairs are held outside by the Gazebo with each organization having a table or events to represent themselves. Follow what catches your eye!
Current club members are around at every table to answer any questions you may have. Something good to ask would be what the club’s mission statement is: all WSU clubs have a short statement for what they hope to accomplish. It’s a quick way to figure out what the club actually does.
If you’d like more information or to be sent a schedule for future club events, most organizations will ask you to write down your name and email. This is low-commitment and only shows that you might be interested in joining, so no pressure!
Photo by Amy Nelson ’20
Don’t Overwhelm Yourself
If you write your name down on 10 club sheets, you’re going to get a lot of emails. Even though the emails don’t mean you’ve officially become a member yet, it’s still a good idea to think carefully about your time management before you give away your information.
The best advice I can give is to stick with only a handful of clubs. Pick organizations you’re truly passionate about that work with your schedule. Of course, we love enthusiasm about getting involved, but remember that clubs are extracurriculars. Leave room for school and work (and YOU time).
Photo by Ka Vang ’16
Make Your Own Club
If you can’t find a club that speaks to you and your interests, you can always make your own. These are the basic requirements for starting your own club:
- Find at least 10 currently enrolled students at WSU who will be active members of your club/organization
- Secure a WSU faculty/staff member to serve as your university advisor
- Establish a club constitution
- Fill out the New Club/Organization Proposal Form with a roster and constitution
- Have proposal reviewed by Student Senate
- Upon Senate approval, your club will be added to the WSU Student Club/Organization Directory
- Finish filling out additional information to finalize the process
After your proposal is approved, your club/organization will be able to reserve rooms/spaces on campus and even apply for funding from Student Senate.
Photo by Amy Nelson ’20
Stay Focused
No matter where your extracurricular life may take you, remember to enjoy yourself along the way. The whole point is to have fun, so don’t stress yourself out by taking on too much!
– Updated by Hailey Seipel (07/02/2019)