How to Get Involved in Extracurriculars at Washington University

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Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) offers students a dynamic and engaging campus experience. Getting involved in extracurricular activities is one of the best ways to enhance your college life, build leadership skills, and form lasting friendships. Whether you’re interested in student government, cultural organizations, or sports, WashU has something for everyone. Here’s a complete guide on how to get involved in extracurricular activities at Washington University.

1. Explore Student Organizations and Clubs

WashU boasts over 450 student organizations, making it easy for students to find activities that align with their interests. To get started:

Attend the Fall and Spring Activities Fair – This event showcases all the clubs on campus, allowing students to meet representatives and sign up.
Browse WUGO (Washington University Group Organizer) – An online portal listing student organizations, events, and leadership opportunities.
Join an Academic or Professional Organization – Groups related to business, engineering, law, and medicine provide networking and career-building opportunities.

By participating in these organizations, students can develop leadership skills, gain experience, and expand their professional networks.

2. Participate in Student Government and Leadership Programs

For students who want to make an impact on campus, student government and leadership programs are excellent options. Opportunities include:

Student Union (SU): WashU’s student government, which represents the student body and allocates funding to organizations.
Leadership Training Opportunities: The Gephardt Institute for Civic and Community Engagement offers programs focused on leadership and public service.
Class Councils and Residential College Government: Allows students to advocate for their peers and shape campus life.

Joining these programs helps students develop communication, negotiation, and organizational skills, which are valuable in any career.

3. Engage in Community Service and Volunteering

WashU encourages students to give back to the community through service programs and non-profit organizations. Opportunities include:

Campus Y: The largest student-run service organization, offering mentoring, education, and environmental projects.
Gephardt Institute for Civic and Community Engagement: Connects students with local St. Louis initiatives.
Alternative Spring Break (ASB): A program where students travel to different locations for service-learning experiences.

Volunteering not only helps students develop compassion and responsibility but also strengthens resumes and graduate school applications.

4. Join Cultural and Identity-Based Organizations

For students seeking community and cultural enrichment, WashU has numerous identity-based groups that celebrate diversity and inclusion. These include:

Asian Multicultural Council, Association of Black Students, and Latinx Student Union – Providing a space for cultural expression and advocacy.
Pride Alliance and LGBTQ+ Organizations – Offering a supportive community for LGBTQ+ students and allies.
International Student Association (ISA): Helping international students adjust to life in the U.S. and celebrate global cultures.

By participating in these groups, students can celebrate their heritage, meet people from diverse backgrounds, and promote inclusivity.

5. Participate in Athletics and Recreation

WashU has numerous opportunities for students who love sports and fitness. Whether you’re a competitive athlete or just want to stay active, you can join:

Intramural Sports: Casual leagues open to all students, including soccer, basketball, and flag football.
Club Sports: Student-run teams that compete with other universities in sports like ultimate frisbee, rugby, and tennis.
Varsity Athletics: WashU is a member of NCAA Division III, offering competitive sports in track, swimming, basketball, and more.

Physical activity is a great way to stay healthy, relieve stress, and build camaraderie with teammates.

6. Get Involved in Performing Arts and Media

For students interested in music, theater, dance, or journalism, WashU has a vibrant arts scene. Opportunities include:

A Cappella and Music Groups: WashU has over a dozen student-run singing groups and ensembles.
Theater and Dance Productions: The Performing Arts Department and student-run groups put on multiple shows each year.
Student Media Organizations: The Washington University Student Media, Inc. (WUSMI) oversees media outlets like Student Life (the student newspaper) and KWUR (the student-run radio station).

These activities allow students to express their creativity, develop public-speaking skills, and gain hands-on experience in media and production.

7. Participate in Research and Academic Competitions

For students passionate about academic enrichment, WashU offers opportunities to engage in research and intellectual challenges:

Undergraduate Research Programs: Students can work alongside faculty members on groundbreaking projects in science, engineering, and the humanities.
Debate and Model United Nations (MUN): Compete in public-speaking events and international policy discussions.
Hackathons and Business Case Competitions: Ideal for students interested in tech, finance, and entrepreneurship.

These activities provide valuable experience that enhances resumes and graduate school applications.

8. Network Through Greek Life

Greek life at WashU is another way to get involved and build friendships. The university has fraternities and sororities that focus on leadership, service, and social engagement. Benefits of joining include:

Philanthropy and Community Service: Each chapter supports a charitable cause.
Leadership Development: Members take on responsibilities within their organizations.
Networking Opportunities: Greek life provides lifelong connections with alumni and fellow members.

While Greek life isn’t for everyone, it offers a strong sense of community and professional networking benefits.

9. Take Advantage of Campus Events and Workshops

WashU regularly hosts events that help students meet new people and explore new interests. These include:

Career Fairs and Networking Events – Connecting students with potential employers.
Public Lectures and Speaker Series – Featuring renowned scholars, activists, and industry leaders.
Workshops and Skill-Building Sessions – Covering topics like entrepreneurship, coding, and personal finance.

Attending these events expands students’ knowledge, skills, and professional networks.

Final Thoughts

Getting involved in extracurricular activities at Washington University enhances the college experience by building skills, friendships, and career opportunities. Whether you’re interested in academics, sports, leadership, or the arts, WashU provides countless ways to engage and grow. Take the first step by exploring clubs, attending events, and stepping out of your comfort zone!