By Zoey Zeller
Student organizations are a central part of campus life at any college, including the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay (UWGB). With over 160 student organizations across the UWGB campuses and nearly 1,500 unique members, there are plenty of opportunities for students to get involved.
At the beginning of each semester, an event called “Orgsmorg” is held on campus, which is known to students as a type of “organization fair” to learn about all the clubs that the school offers.
Before an organization can even table at Orgsmorg, though, they first must be registered through the Student Engagement Center (SEC). Stephanie Kaponya, the program coordinator at the SEC, said that they are there to “offer and guide students with opportunities outside of the classroom…As a department [they] work with and reach students through employment, programs, activities, clubs and organizations, service and graduation.”
Kaponya advises students to look on the Involve app and see what clubs are offered. She mentioned that many organizations are in search of members and have leadership positions available.
However, if a student doesn’t find something that aligns with what they are looking for, new organizations can be created. Requirements include at least four students, with two interested in becoming president and vice president, an on-campus advisor, and a constitution. Paperwork to become official can then be started.
“It does take some work to organize and to advertise, but if done right, it can be very rewarding to the students partaking in the organization and the campus who are supporting the organization,” Kaponya remarked.
Starting up a new organization can be a challenging task, especially when trying to reach members. Senior Emma Bliskey, a multi-media specialist for the University Union, student ambassador, and UWGB Pinky Swear PACK vice president, recently helped to start a new organization, the Green Bay Gigglers Improv Group.
photo of Emma Bliskey at Orgsmorg (Gigglers Treasurer and co-founder)
“The best way to grow a student org is having connections! It is really important to be involved on campus in many ways to get people to join an org…Starting the Gigglers org, I found that since many people recognized myself and other officers, that led them to want to get involved and check out what we had to offer,” Bliskey said. She also recommends networking with classmates, professors, and friends, as well as utilizing social media.
Another student heavily involved on campus, Maddy Hartmann, has similar thoughts. Formerly Treasurer and now the president of Pinky Swear PACK, chapter president of Pi Beta Phi, Green Bay Gigglers Treasurer, and Student Ambassador, Hartmann emphasizes the importance of connections. “Putting yourself out there as a leader to get other people interested in the org is key to growth.”
Photo of Maddy Hartmann at Orgsmorg (pinky swear PACK president)
Not only can starting and leading an organization benefit the campus, but also individuals. “I have met so many new people and developed so many skills. If I never would have joined these orgs, I would have never met any of my best friends. I have improved my confidence, communication, leadership, and organization,” Hartmann stated.
“Being an org leader has opened up so many opportunities for me. I have gained exceptional skills in leadership and teamwork that have helped me in the classroom and will help me in future careers,” Bliskey added.
Both leaders strongly recommend taking up a leadership role, whether that be in an organization or an academic project, stressing that it sets students up for their future and gives them the strength and confidence, as well as motivation that they need in many careers.
photo of Zoey Zeller at Orgsmorg (Fists Up 4 Feminism president and founder)
The best way to get involved is to attend events. According to SEC records, there were 73 student organization events submitted in March, and 69 in February. Many of them are open to all students, no membership required. Students are encouraged to keep an eye out for posters around campus boasting events, or search on the Involve app for things coming up on the calendar.