By Alyssa Meredith, ASUU Deputy Chief of Staff, and Annalisa Purser, communications specialist, University Marketing and Communications
Before the semester get away from you, take some time to consider these suggestions for making the most of your time at the U.
- Join a club
ASUU suggests all students join a club to meet other students on campus. With so many responbilities placed on U students, it can be hard to find time to meet new people. Joining a club , or starting a new one, is a great way to find a support group on campus and to be involved with the student body. Students who don’t have a lot of extra time can look for groups that align with how they already spend their time. Clubs range from recreational activities and sports to student chapters of professional societies to groups that are connected to specific disciplines.
- Visit ASUU’s newly refurnished office
The ASUU leadership team wanted to create a space for all students to enjoy, so the office just got a facelift. There are tables in the main area that are open to all students to use as study space and to meet members of ASUU. There is a Wii to provide a quick study break. On the other side of the office, there is a lounge area with a few couches and a coffee table.
- Volunteer
Volunteering gives you new experiences, looks great on a resume and makes you feel good. There are several ASUU boards that are easy to get involved with: Philanthropy and Service Board, Sustainability Board and Academic Affairs Board. The Philanthropy and Service Board is always looking for volunteers to plan philanthropy events. The Sustainability Board heads the Recycle Rice-Eccles program, which requires more than 100 volunteers to gather recyclables at football games. The Academic Affairs Board is a great way to get involved with the inner workings of the university. In addition to ASUU opportunities, ASUU representatives can refer you to other campus organizations that need volunteers, such as the Union Programming Council (UPC) and the Bennion Community Service Center.
- Take advantage of student resources
There are so many resources offered at little or no extra charge to students. ASUU alone offers resources such as the Student Advocacy Board, which provides a safe place for people to voice their concerns on sensitive subjects. There are career advisors on campus, exercise classes and many more resources students can use. Stop by the ASUU office, and we can connect you with different areas on campus.
- Consider running for office
It’s not too early to begin thinking about becoming an ASUU leader. Filing to run for office opens Oct. 31 and closes Nov. 11. Visit the ASUU website for elections packets, and then attend an information session to learn more. Executive information sessions will be held on Oct. 4 and 6 in Union, Room 323. Legislative information sessions will be held Oct. 17, in the Union Den, and Oct. 20, in Union, Room 323. If you have questions, contact ASUU Elections Registrar Chase Grover at cgrover@asuu.utah.edu.