ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Launches 'Involvement Week' to Enhance Student Engagement
Involvement Week simplifies and enriches the process of getting involved on campus in the first two weeks of the fall semester, ensuring that every student—whether they’re new to ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú or looking for a fresh start—has the opportunity to connect and start to find their place.
ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Launches 'Involvement Week' to Enhance Student Engagement
With more than 600 student organizations, there is almost certainly something - or many somethings - for every student. It’s a fact touted on ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú’s websites, brochures, and social media alike. But 600 organizations can feel overwhelming to navigate and deciding on the one or two or three perfect ones to invest so much time and energy into can lead to decision paralysis.
Mega Fair, ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú’s hallmark involvement fair, brings together hundreds of student organizations, making it one of the most anticipated events of the year. However, the sheer size and scope of Mega Fair can be daunting.
Hearing these issues, the Division of Student Life, through the Center for Student Engagement, Activities, and ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉúhip, is introducing Involvement Week this year. This new initiative is designed to simplify and enrich the process of getting involved on campus in the first two weeks of the fall semester, ensuring that every student—whether they’re new to ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú or looking for a fresh start—has the opportunity to connect and start to find their place.
“Mega Fair isn’t necessarily changing, but it will be supported and enhanced by a number of other initiatives and opportunities to help students find their place,” said Ryan Kwapniowski, associate director for student activities. “This year we’ll have our first ever interactive map, large arches to help with wayfinding, and multiple workshops to help make navigating Mega Fair a bit easier.”
Schedule Highlights
Involvement Week will feature a lineup of events tailored to cater to a wide range of interests:
- : The flagship event where hundreds of student organizations gather to introduce themselves. Take a peek at which organizations will be at Mega Fair using a new !
- Farmer School of Business Welcome Events: For those interested in business, entrepreneurship, and related fields.
- Welcome to Oxford: An introduction to the local community, its businesses, and opportunities.
- Black 2 School: Celebrating Black student organizations and promoting inclusivity.
- Rainbow Reception: Highlighting LGBTQ+ groups and fostering a supportive community.
- Donuts with the Dean of Students: A casual meet-and-greet offering students a chance to connect with the Dean over sweet treats.
- Voter Registration: Encouraging civic engagement and ensuring students are registered to vote.
- SEAL Ambassador Involvement Workshops: Sessions focused on navigating The Hub (the university's platform for student organizations) and providing guidance on next steps post-Mega Fair.
Finding Your Place
While Involvement Week is designed with first-year students in mind, aiming to ease their transition into university life, all students are invited to participate. From first-year students looking to find community or an upper class student seeking career-related experience, there's something for everyone.
"Involvement Week sprouted to simplify getting involved and break it down for people," said Nyah Smith, former student body president and current student engagement coordinator for the Center for Student Engagement, Activities, and ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉúhip. "So many campus partners and student orgs work to create these opportunities. How can we make it easier for everyone?”
Event Details
Involvement Week is scheduled to kick off on the first day of class, Aug. 26, 2024 and will run through Sept. 7. Detailed information can be found at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉúOH.edu/InvolvementWeek.
