This week, new and returning students will have the opportunity to join any number of Tech’s hundreds of student organizations during the annual Engagement Week.

Each day, representatives from student organizations will be on hand to share information about their group’s mission, goals, and activities. Most organizations let students join on the spot.

Tuesday will feature campus partners and resources. Wednesday will feature student organizations, including those with a cultural, Greek, honor, recreational, professional, religious, and sports. Thursday will feature groups with a volunteer focus. 

Studies have shown 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 other activity outside 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, assistant director of outreach and wellness 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 Engagement Week events can be the first step in building these emotional connections in a new place.

"The key is to make yourself available, be 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."

For those who may be nervous about the Engagement Week environment, Patel encouraged that it's designed specifically with those students in mind. 

Kelly Cross, assistant director of Student Organizations in Student Life, has the following advice for students who plan to attend the fair:

1. Have an open mind! You may have researched one club over the summer and find you are now more interested in something else.
2. Start with one organization — it can be overwhelming to try to talk to everyone.
3. Ask the organization representatives the mission of the organization. The “Why?” is important!
4. Find something that you’re passionate about. If you love what you are doing, it will look good on your resume. 

The showcase of campus organizations runs Aug. 30 to Sept. 1 on Tech Walk. Students who are unable to attend can browse an online directory of all of Tech’s student organizations via OrgSync, or contact Student Engagement at leadandengage@gatech.edu.