Tabling Takes Over Tech Walk for Organization Fair
Members of One Voice Atlanta table to raise awareness among students about the issue of sex trafficking.
This week, new and returning students will have the opportunity to join any number of Tech’s hundreds of student organizations during the Engagement Week Student Organization Fair.
On Wednesday, Aug. 27, and Thursday, Aug. 28, representatives from more than 100 organizations will be on hand to share information about their group's goals, purpose and activities. Most organizations let students join on the spot.
“Getting involved was and continues to be a way to learn more about myself by meeting and learning from others,” said Dillon Roseen, an economics and international affairs major and president of the undergraduate Student Government Association.
Research shows that students who are involved on campus get better grades and more job offers, and are ultimately more satisfied with their undergraduate experience than peers who aren’t involved in an organization or activity outside of the classroom. Studies have also shown that the happiest people are those who lead balanced lives and develop close relationships with others.
"We’re social creatures by nature and need emotional connections with others in order to be self-confident and fulfilled," said Tiffiny Hughes-Troutman, licensed psychologist and outreach coordinator for the Georgia Tech Counseling Center. "Social interaction helps us to reduce stress and cope with problems. It also plays a role in keeping us healthy and resisting illness."
Attending the Organization Fair can be the first step in building these emotional connections for new Tech students.
"The key is to make yourself available, act friendly, and open yourself to new people and positive experiences," said Hughes-Troutman. "New friends can be found in class, on the Stinger, or even at the Campus Recreation Center."
Getting involved also presents students with opportunities they may never get through class. This summer, Roseen was able to travel to Nepal with a group from Outdoor Recreation Georgia Tech, where they backpacked through Sagarmatha National Park in the shadow of Mt. Everest.
Wednesday will feature cultural, Greek, Honor Society, leisure/recreational, professional/departmental, religious/spiritual, and sports organizations. Thursday will host educational, civic engagement/service, performance, political, and production organizations.
Kelly Cross, coordinator of Student Organizations and Leadership for the Office of Leadership and Civic Engagement, offers this advice for students who attend the fair:
- Have an open mind.
- If you're feeling overwhelmed, take a break and come back later.
- Do some research ahead of time and target your search.
- Find something you’re passionate about. If you love what you are doing it will look good on your resume.
Students who are unable to attend the fair can browse all of Tech’s student organizations on JacketPages or contact the Office of Leadership and Civic Engagement at leadandengage@gatech.edu.