3 reasons to go to club callouts (other than free pizza!)
The new school year is just getting started and clubs across campus are vying for your participation. Some bribe you with free cookies or pizza and others with little knickknacks, but there are so many other reasons you should be going to club callouts.
1. To meet more people
One of the best things you can do for yourself in college is meet as many people as you can. The connections you make will develop into your friends, your study buddies, and your professional network. Knowing the right person can even help you find your future career. Club callouts are a great way to meet people that share your passions- including your hobbies, your favorite sports, your major, and more.
2. To create opportunities for yourself
Clubs provide opportunities that you won’t find anywhere else. Social clubs can set up activities for free or reduced cost since they have their own money to spend and can often get reduced group rates. For example, simply being a member of Theme Park Engineering and Design (TPED) can get you a cheap trip to Kings Island.
Professional organizations are a gold mine of opportunities. You can make connections with peers and alumni alike to expand your network and learn how your studies can be applied to the work force. Many of these organizations have a component that focuses on professional development- things like your resume, interviewing skills, and professional etiquette. Often times, they will even help you find jobs and internships!
3. To dedicate time to your passions
College is busy, so it’s easy forget to dedicate time to even your favorite activities. Clubs provide a set time and place to do something you love. Going to meetings will give you a much needed break from your studies while helping you keep up with your passions. For example, had I not joined orchestra at Purdue, I probably would not have made much time to play my violin, and that’s an interest I have been passionately pursuing for 14 years!
How to get involved at Purdue
Purdue has over 1000 clubs, and many of them have their callouts within the next month. Boilerlink is a great way to learn about callout dates and see a little more information about each club. Clubs commonly advertise their callouts through “chalk talk” (so you just have to look on the ground while you’re walking). Bulletin boards are also a great source of information. For professional organizations related to your major, check the boards in your school’s building. Finally, social media can be a great way to find information on club callouts — especially on Purdue affiliated pages.
Keep time in mind
You may want to join every club you have an interest in, but it’s important to keep in mind the time you have available to commit. Homework and studying can pile up fast, even if it doesn’t seem like it at first. Purdue recommends taking part in 2 clubs: one for fun and one related to your major. This way your club involvement helps you grow both personally and professionally.
Purdue Bands and Orchestras Organizations
If you are looking to get more involved in Purdue Bands and Orchestras, here are a few clubs and organizations to check out:
- The Lounge- Purdue Bands and Orchestras Magazine (the reason for this article!)
- Band Bible Study
- Jazz Club
- Musical LGBTQ+
- Kappa Kappa Psi and Tau Beta Sigma
- Volunteer Management Teams (VMT) for Purdue Bands and Orchestras
