Getting Involved

Join an Organization

The Plus Side of Joining an Organization

UM-Dearborn has over 100 student organizations for you to choose from to find people who are just like you or people who are your exact opposite, but can teach you things that you never knew.  In an organization you are able to not only enjoy the company of others, but also grow and learn.  You can learn skills related to your future job, explore new interests, or further develop your academic interests.  With perks like this, why not join something?

What Types of Organizations Are at UM-Dearborn?

• Fraternities &  Sororities
• University Sponsored Organizations
• Media Organizations
• Honor Societies
• Academic/Professional
• Cultural/Ethnic
• Political/Social Activism
• Recreational/Special Interest
• Religious/Spiritual

Not Sure What to Join?

So you’ve decided that you want to join something, but you just aren’t sure of which organization to join.  Ask yourself the following questions to help you find something you would enjoy and benefit from.

• What do you like to do?
• What do you want to get out of the organization?
• Do you want to make new friends or are you looking for a professional group?
• Do you want to be involved in something that you believe in?
• Do you want to explore new ideas?
• Do you want to join a group related to your major or career choice?
• Do you want to continue interests from before (high school, other colleges)?
• Do you want to serve the community or campus?
• Do you want to help create change on campus or in the community?
• What type of role do you want to play in the organization?
• How much time can you devote to an organization?
• Are there financial requirements?

How Do I Start Getting Involved?

The first thing that you need to do is take the plunge.  Attending an open meeting for any organization is an excellent way to put your foot in the door and also to see what the organization is all about.  Being in attendance does not mean you are automatically committed.

If you are not sure about an organization’s open meeting policy, contact a representative via email first to see how and when you can learn more about the organization.  After the meeting, talk with other members and ask them what they enjoy about the organization.  Why did they join?  How have they benefited from being a member?

Once you’re in, don’t be shy - make yourself welcome!  Ask questions, give input, and volunteer to help out when you can.  As the old adage goes, “You’ll get out of the experience what you put into it.”  Make the most of your college experience!

Helpful Resources:

• Classmates
• Bulletin boards
• Showcases and display board
• Members of organizations
• Faculty, staff and your academic advisor
• Orientation leaders
• Student Activities Office staff

Need More Information?

At the beginning of each semester, UM-Dearborn celebrates Welcome Week (September) and Winter Welcome (January).  Many organizations participate by setting up booths, promoting upcoming events and signing up new members.   Stop by some of the booths to talk to the members and ask questions about their organization and events. 

For more information about these events, any student organization, or campus program, you can contact the Student Activities Office by stopping in (2106 University Center), emailing (student_activities@umd.umich.edu), or calling at 313-593-5390.