Welcome back, Missouri State Bears! I hope you’re having a fantastic semester so far. With the semester already flying by, now is the perfect time to think about getting more involved. At Missouri State, student engagement is one of our core pillars, and you can really embrace it by connecting with the campus community. Now that you’ve got your routine down, why not try something new? Missouri State has over 325 student organizations, ranging from academic-focused organizations to social ones, so there’s something for everyone. When you’re considering where to get involved, I’d recommend picking one organization related to your major or academic interests and another just for fun. That way, you’ll have a great balance of academic growth and a chance to unwind with friends outside of your studies.

Bear Link

Bear Link is an excellent resource for students looking to explore organizations, events, and more! It’s a great way to discover the variety of organizations MSU offers, stay up to date on upcoming events, and find important forms for your student groups. You can also access all this information on the go by downloading the Involve app.

With so many organizations to choose from, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest. If you don’t see a club that fits your passion, don’t worry—you can create your own! All you need is an advisor and five other students, and you’ll be well on your way to starting a new organization. The Office of Student Engagement is here to guide you through the process.

Involvement Incentives

Joining an organization on campus comes with countless rewards! Getting involved helps you build a deeper sense of belonging and connects you with both faculty and peers. Beyond meeting amazing people, you’ll have the opportunity to develop valuable skills, like interpersonal communication and leadership, which can enhance your resume.

When I joined organizations during my freshman year, I felt more connected to campus and had an inside track on what was happening around me. The friendships I’ve made through these groups have been incredibly meaningful, and I know they’ll stay with me long after graduation.

Takeaways

As students, we’re all here to focus on our academics and pursue our education, but it’s also important to remember the value of building connections that make our experience more meaningful and enjoyable. Joining an organization is a fantastic way to actively engage with Missouri State’s public affairs mission while forming those important connections. If you’re unsure where to start or need help finding an organization, consider meeting with a success coach or peer mentor. They can provide great guidance in navigating your options and aligning your interests with the right opportunities. Wishing you all a successful rest of the semester—Go Bears!

~Melyssa  

(Bio: My name is Melyssa Hernandez, and I am a senior studying psychology. Fun fact: I am an out-of-state student from Chicago, Illinois)