The Hamline University campus has never seemed so full, with almost 600 first-years, the highest number since pre-COVID-19. This brings up the question of what it is about Hamline that draws in so many students. Campus life can be a bit daunting to new students, but with the guidance from faculty, staff and student organizations and their leaders, it can be made easier.

Resources

The Piper Academic Community (PAC) and First-Gen program are great ways to learn about the campus, develop skills for professional settings and connect with mentors. These opportunities allow for a comfortable, welcoming environment and have helped many people transition smoothly into college life.

Leadership Development and Student Activities

With so many incoming first-years, some questions may arise about how to become more involved on campus or what organizations first-years should join. Director of Student Activities Patrick Haught and Student Activities Coordinator Austin Malberg, both encourage students to go out and join organizations in their first year to help alleviate those fears.

“Students who get involved on campus regularly show increased skill development in the areas of leadership, collaboration, communication, budgeting and project management. These are all really essential professional skills, which is why students who get involved during their college years also typically receive job offers out of college at higher rates. Students who get involved in college also complete their degrees at higher rates,” Haught said via email. “The easiest ways to get involved on campus are by joining student organizations and attending events.”

Hosted from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 9, on Alumni Way, the biannual Student Organization Fair is a great opportunity for students to see what kinds of organizations there are and what they offer.

Malber believes students should not be afraid to ask questions or seek help. Reaching out allows students to feel more confident and comfortable while they learn on campus. Coming in as a new student, no one expects you to know everything, so asking questions is highly encouraged. Not being a member of a group does not limit you to attending group events.

“I believe that all of our student organizations offer unique benefits in their own way. I wouldn't say there is one specific group students should join over another. However, if there was an event I would encourage all first-years to attend, it would be the Student Organization Fair,” Malberg said via email. “At this event, a bunch of our Student Organizations will host tables where you will have a chance to interact with current members, ask questions, and think about which organizations might be a good fit for you.”
If one is looking for activities to join or lead, there are countless groups and clubs here to help new (and returning) Pipers succeed.
“If you’re looking to develop new skills, boost your academic performance and put yourself on track to graduate early, becoming involved and connecting with the campus is step one,” Haught said via email.