Here's why I joined student groups and why should you?

In 2021, I applied to be the graphic designer for the Concordia Canadian Asian Society (CCAS). Was it awkward? Yep, and it even remained so for a couple of months. Did I pass the interview? Barely, but now I’m proud to be a part of a devoted team. 

Here, conversations don’t stop short at “How are you?” or “What’s for homework?” Here, a group of volunteers organize Asian cultural events for fellow students from within and beyond the university. And CCAS is one non-profit organization among the hundreds of student groups at Concordia.  

Student groups were confusing for me when I joined because there were so many. Let me give you a quick breakdown:

Student groups, also known as clubs, are funded yearly by their respective faculty student associations. Some of the most notable umbrella student associations are the Concordia Student Union (CSU), the Graduate Student Association (GSA) and the four faculty associations:

• Fine Arts Students Alliance (FASA) 
• Arts & Science Federation of Associations (ASFA) 
• Commerce and Administration Students’ Association (CASA) 
• Engineering and Computer Science Association (ECA)

Led by a team of student volunteers, these umbrella associations use their annual budget to fund smaller groups/clubs to build, empower and represent communities of similar interests and backgrounds within the student body. I highly recommend you browse the comprehensive list of ALL the clubs and groups that exist at Concordia to see if any peak your interest. 

While I initially joined my club to hone my artistic skills, here are the reasons why I've come to cherish it and will continue to do so:

1. Embrace being a university student early on - make those connections

Many say university friends are friends for life, but the search for friendship in class proved difficult for me. My social life depended on the ever-changing group of students seated beside me, our conversations racing through the mere 10-minute break. 

Yet when I volunteered for the Concordia Game Development club (CGD), I discovered a vibrant community of hundreds of students united by our shared passion for video games. Within the ample space, the generous time, and fun events offered by CGD, building new friendships no longer seems like a game of chance. I had the pleasure of meeting some of the most dedicated and delightful students, now-turned-friends through student groups!

3. First campus job in a supportive environment (and perks)

I took on a small illustration commissioned by FASA in celebration of Lunar New year in 2021! It was my first work experience with a faculty association, and I loved it. I also got perks like free event entries. 

While most student groups operate on a volunteer basis, faculty student associations are staffed by student executives. At the end of each academic year (usually in March), students from each faculty participate in elections to select the next group of executives.

Associations often recruit students from within their respective faculties to ensure the most effective representation of the student body. Keep an out eye for your faculty association’s social media for updates, join their events and find current job openings. 

Whether you're simply joining a group's Discord or aiming for an executive role, always remember to explore at your own pace and comfort. Instead of committing to an executive role, consider applying to be a first-year representative first to get a glimpse! University life truly becomes more memorable when you embrace it early on, particularly during first year.

3. Is volunteering even worth it?

I once believed that volunteering was not as important until now! Even simple tasks, like reserving a space at Concordia, can help you learn skills and adapt. 

Beyond the impressive titles and occasional perks, executives gain invaluable soft skills that will come in handy in their career later on. Juggling a packed schedule requires you to master time management and be efficient. As you confront one challenge after another, you'll slowly cultivate the discipline essential for achieving future success. Volunteering for student groups not only enriches your university experience but also your co-curricular record (might be requested from future employers and scholarship applications).

While I can't promise that there won't be any awkward moments, I can certainly assure you that it will be a truly worthwhile experience.

It’s past the DNE deadline as enrollments hold steady and the crazy is finally over. The ship has sailed, and the hidden gem lies within the rich student life that Concordia offers.