At Villanova, the student body prides itself on a sense of community. While the University aims to foster a sense of belonging for all, some student organizations seem to create an environment where inclusion is conditional. This raises the question: are the students here truly embodying Veritas, Unitas and Caritas when there is an underlying culture of exclusivity that undermines the University’s mission?
Villanova has more than 300 student-run clubs, which should allow any student to find a community where they fit in. However, many of these organizations are not entirely transparent on how competitive or exclusive they really are. Whether in academic clubs, leadership activities or other student-run organizations, the exclusivity that sometimes defines these spaces can create barriers to inclusion and hinder the University’s overarching goal of fostering a diverse and inclusive environment.
This exclusivity in student organizations at Villanova often manifests through highly selective recruitment processes, unspoken social codes and perceived social hierarchies. It can leave students feeling marginalized if they do not meet a particular set of standards. While it is understandable that certain clubs, especially those with more specialized focuses like professional societies, may require specific qualifications or interests, many clubs inadvertently send the message that only a select few are “worthy” of membership.
Certain highly-acclaimed organizations that are recognized and respected by the University are the ones that practice the most exclusionary practices. Students report that if they had a friend in the administrative level of the organization, they accepted their whole friend group without having to go through the interview and recruitment processes that people not in their friend group had to do. Students who are excluded from these organizations often experience a sense of isolation, as the social opportunities provided through these groups often have effects on the whole campus.
“I think Villanova pushes the mission of inclusion, and they pride themselves on being so inclusive but they’re very selective on who they choose for things,” a very involved sophomore said. “So they’re inclusive until they’re not.”
Simply marketing itself as an inclusive organization that accepts students of all backgrounds does not automatically make it that way. These student organizations must practice what they preach.
“A lot of it is based on who you’re friends with and who you know,” the same student said.
If a club is going to have a rigorous recruitment process, it should ensure that every student being accepted into the club goes through the same process without any sense of bias.
If Villanova is to live up to its commitment to community and inclusivity, the culture of exclusivity in clubs must be addressed. Clubs should be spaces where all students, regardless of background and social capital, should be able to participate and contribute. Rather than focusing on rigid criteria or prestige, clubs should aim to prioritize an environment that welcomes diverse talents, perspectives and backgrounds.
The key to an inclusive community lies in intentionally creating spaces for students who may not traditionally see themselves represented in certain organizations. The goal is for student organizations at Villanova to reflect the true diversity of the student body, offering equal opportunities for all to contribute. A more inclusive culture would not only improve the student experience, but also cultivate a campus where all students feel connected to their peers and to the Villanova community at large. By rethinking what it means to be part of a club and embracing a more inclusive mindset, Villanova can ensure that every student feels empowered to make contributions to the University’s community. It is time to move away from exclusive cliques and build a campus culture that values each individual’s unique voice and perspective. By doing so, Villanova can create a more inclusive, supportive and equitable environment for all students.
