Joining a Student Organization

Finding the Right Group for You

Being a member of a student organization enriches your years at the University of Michigan in many ways. The good friends and good times help transform what is sometimes a large overwhelming institution into a place you can call "home." Student organizations also give you opportunities to explore new interests, develop skills, enhance your academic program and have an impact on the University community. You may want to get involved, but with over 1000 organizations on campus, you may wonder how to find the best group for you.

You've made a good start by beginning the investigation process. SAL has helpful staff and lots of information to start you on your way.

What's Important To Me?

Ask yourself some of these questions:

  • What am I looking for in an organization?
  • Do I primarily want to make new friends?
  • Do I want to work on something I believe in?
  • Do I want to explore something new?
  • Should I be in a group that relates to my major or career choice?
  • Do I want a real break from my academics?
  • Shall I continue an interest from high school?
  • Do I want to be of real service to the campus or community?
  • Do I want to help make things happen?
  • How much time do I have for an organization?
  • Are there financial considerations?

What Kind Of Groups Are There?

U of M and Ann Arbor are a diverse community of people, ideas and concerns. There are many organizations in each of the following categories:

  • Service Programming
  • Governmental
  • Departmental/Academic
  • Residence Halls/Co-ops
  • Fraternity/Sorority
  • Religious Sports/Recreation
  • Social
  • Political
  • Honorary
  • Social Issues
  • International/Cultural/Ethnic

How Do I Get More Information?

At the beginning of the fall semester, SAL hosts Festifall – the student organization carnival on the Diag. Call 763-5900 to find out the September date and time. Festifall will give you the opportunity to meet representatives from over 300 student organizations and university departments.

Another way to explore our vast variety of student organizations is to visit Maize Pages, our “online home for finding the right student organization,” at www.umich.edu/~maizepgs. Browse to find what’s right for you! There are also other resources you can explore and SAL can help.  Contact SAL at 734-763-5900 or salead@umich.edu.

How Do I Take The Plunge?

Organizations are always looking to recruit new members. They are very eager to answer your questions and explain their activities and purposes.

Most groups have "Mass Meetings" at the beginning of each term. These are open to any interested student. You're under no obligation to join the group if you attend - it's simply a chance for you to get more information and for the group to learn of your interest. If you miss a mass meeting or find out about a group during the year, call a contact person and ask when the next meeting is. If meeting times and programs are posted, you can always assume you're welcome. Of course, some organizations, such as honoraries, fraternities and sororities, have selected memberships, so be sure to find out the particulars in these cases.

Once you've joined an organization, be proactive. Introduce yourself to people, ask questions, express ideas and be sure to volunteer your time and energy. Engaging with people in the organization will help get you noticed and make the transition easier to feeling like a member.