Whether one is a freshman or a senior, they have likely heard the infamous, enthusiastic urge to “Get involved!” a couple dozen, or hundred, times by now. While perhaps a bit too tossed around by fellow students and faculty, it’s true that Villanova’s campus culture is characterized by heavy commitment, community and even competitiveness. The array of opportunities offers something for everyone. Whether it is volunteering at a local animal farm or playing Division I basketball, nearly every area of interest is covered by some organization or other here at Villanova.
There are more than 300 clubs, from student interest groups to academic organizations and beyond, so students often continue longstanding passions from high school or discover new ones throughout their four years here.
A new member of Model UN, CAT, the Pre-Law Society, LEVEL, the Food Recovery Network and more, freshman Angela Choi is eager to find her niche as a new college student.
“I think that there’s so many opportunities for different clubs here, which is why I’m able to explore different options and really be a part of the campus culture here,” Choi said.
The emphasis on service and community, too, often makes its way into the lives of Wildcats.
In addition to widespread participation in Greek Life and the highly anticipated annual Special Olympics, many seek out Villanova’s upcoming Day of Service to help those in need in neighboring areas.
Falling on Sept. 30 this year, many freshmen take part in this community-bonding experience with their group from New Student Orientation—an event facilitated by Orientation Counselors, whose leadership positions aim to ease the potentially stressful transition to college.
“I love being an [Orientation Counselor] because of how it enables me to impact new students at a time in their college career when they need the most guidance: the very beginning,” sophomore Nick Shlackman said. “Getting to know everyone on staff and those 20 students so incredibly well is an amazing way for me to get involved on campus and leave my mark on Villanova. I’m extremely grateful for every opportunity I have to work as part of the orientation program and cannot recommend it enough for those looking to get involved. There’s nothing more special than a trip to ‘orientation land’ before the fall semester begins.”
While most students belong to at least a few such organizations, there are other ways to be an active member of the University besides participating in clubs. Taking advantage of the countless resources and activities on campus, from the stress-relieving pet therapy to Friday Food Truck events facilitated by CAT, is just as good a way to become absorbed into Villanova’s close-knit community.
Moreover, student employment opportunities are widely available across campus. In addition to allowing students to earn a little pocket money, these jobs help students figure out how to balance a demanding workload and part-time job alongside a blossoming social life.
“It’s a great way to gain experience with customer service and prepare me to venture into a social world,” freshman Emily Walsh said, as she is newly employed as a hospitality associate at Donahue Market.
Whether one has already found their place within Villanova’s brimming campus culture or has yet to uncover their passion, the abundance of student involvement opportunities is no secret. Students should tag along with friends to club information sessions, check out CAT’s weekly activities, try things they typically wouldn’t and, while it may take some trial-and-error, it won’t be long before something sparks an interest and enriches their college experience.
Whether they’re in the classroom, on the basketball court or elsewhere, Wildcats’ hardworking and competitive nature shines brightly. There is no shortage of ways for students to make their marks at Villanova.
