How to get involved as the University re-opens
As URI welcomes new students to campus, Rhody the Ram encourages them to get involved. PHOTO CREDIT: alumni.uri.edu
After a long year of restrictions, social distancing and virtual learning, the University of Rhode Island is starting to open up again for the fall semester.
For many students, first year or otherwise, this is their first true college experience. For new students, one of the most important aspects of college life is getting involved on campus and actively engaging with the URI community.
Clubs and organizations are a huge part of the URI community. In total, there are more than 130 student-run clubs and organizations, ranging from sports and hobbies to religious groups and service groups. Additionally, there are 15 fraternities and 10 sororities at the University.
One of the most prominent clubs at URI is the Student Entertainment Committee (SEC), which has been working hard to provide excellent opportunities for URI students. Some performers who the SEC has booked include Jason Derulo, Sal Vulcano and Kenan Thompson. As restrictions are being lifted, the Committee has planned more in-person events. This fall, SEC has scheduled performances from rapper Playboi Carti for Dec. 16 and a comedian yet to be announced for parents weekend.
In addition to the performances, the SEC worked with the Memorial Union, Student Event Advising (SEA) office and other organizations to plan and host the first annual “RhodyFest.” This event was made to replace First Night, where freshmen were able to learn more about the student organizations at URI.
RhodyFest was a four-hour festival on the Quadrangle and in front of the Memorial Union with clubs and organizations setting up booths and tables looking for potential new members.
“I thought RhodyFest went well, and it was good just to have something in person and get to speak to people face-to-face,” SEC Administrative Secretary Alexa Potamianos said.
Even though Rhodyfest has passed, it’s not too late for students to reach out to any clubs they want to join.
“Just put yourself out there.” Potamianos said, “It’s still early enough in the year.”
Potamianos also recommended that students look at the URI Student Organizations page, where students can find every single student-run club and organization recognized and registered with the Student Senate. By clicking on an organization’s name, you can find the meeting time, place and methods of contact for board members, as well as a brief description of the club’s goals and mission statements.
The Center for Career and Experiential Education (CCEE) and University College for Academic Success (UCAS), both located in Roosevelt Hall, are resources for students seeking employment and career opportunities. Advisors for the CCEE work with students to find success in and out of the classroom. They work with students in helping them determine their plans after graduation and ways to best market themselves.
“Be willing to make connections,” Harrington School Career Education Specialist Jenna Visinho said. “Academics are important, but to be a well-rounded human, you need to be exposed to different areas. Take the lessons you are learning and apply them.”
Visinho, who also works with the CCEE, recommended that students check out the University’s job and internship board, Handshake. The website makes it easy to connect with potential employers, find internships and apply for jobs around campus. In a few quick steps, students can search and apply for jobs.
Handshake offers part-time and full-time employment, as well as internship and volunteer opportunities for students. Visinho explained that gaining experience is incredibly important for career success in the future, yet it may not be as difficult as it seems.
No matter what you are interested in, there is an organization, job or event for you to take part in. URI has countless opportunities for all students, so get involved!