Why You Should Get Involved in Campus Life

Here are some University of Calgary students on how and why you should get involved.

An active student life outside of classes can help round off your university experience. Here are some University of Calgary students on how and why you should get involved.

Tina Guo, Cumming School of Medicine
Supporting marginalized populations has been a passion of Tina’s since junior high school, so it made sense to continue on that path at UCalgary, where she founded the Students Against Domestic Abuse Association. She says her exposure to people who have dealt with trauma and mental illness has taught her so much about how to approach them with empathy. This dovetails with her interest in psychiatry as she heads into residency.
“I would be woefully inadequate as a clinician if not for the student organizations in which I’ve taken part.”

Hasnaien Ahmed, fourth-year, plant biology
After spending his first year focusing solely on academics, Hasnaien has made a point of getting involved in his second year. He volunteers with Career Services, is part of the language exchange program USpeak Global, was a member of the biological sciences undergraduate committee and plays intramural volleyball. Much of his experience doesn’t relate to his degree, but for Hasnaein, that’s the best part about volunteering.
“Who knows what skills you’ll learn or who you’ll meet?”

Kristy Koehler, fifth-year, history
When Kristy first started her post-secondary journey, she put all her energy into her course work and says that’s why she dropped out. When she returned to complete her degree, she made it a point to be active on campus. Now she is the incoming editor-in-chief for The Gauntlet, president of the History Students’ Association, an international student mentor, and part of USpeak Global. She also gives campus tours and enjoys helping newcomers to campus get acclimated.
“Being able to help someone adjust into their student experience is the most rewarding.”

Melinda Coetze, fifth-year, dance and kinesiology double major
Helping other students has been a major part of Melinda’s extra curriculars. Over the course of her time at UCalgary, she’s mentored other students through the Faith and Spirituality Centre, Wellness Centre, the Leadership and Student Engagement office, and the International Student Mentorship Program. She’s also been a student rep for the Residence Students’ Association, an orientation leader, a volunteer at the Sport Medicine Centre and on the executive of three different clubs. Her university experience has been more enjoyable since getting involved.
“I have the opportunity to impact a lot of people and for people to impact me as well. I’m really thankful I met so many amazing people throughout my time on campus. It makes campus feel more like home.”

Top tips:

• Take it slow. Try one or two opportunities and build up from there.
• Schedule everything.
• Prioritize, but also allow those priorities to shift.
• Try as many different options as you can.
• Know your limits. It’s OK to say no.
• Schedule time for yourself.