As a freshmen and most of sophomore year, I was about as involved in student organizations as much as a lump on a log. It was always a struggle to do resume assignments for class because mine was empty; leadership roles NONE, service roles NONE and my favorite why are you qualified for this position. I had nothing to put for those questions on any type of applications or resume. I simply just wasn't involved in any type of academic, social, service or athletic group. Honestly the length of my CV was an embarrassing one page.
About midway through sophomore year I realized that I needed to change. Not only to improve my resume, but also to enjoy college more, I needed to become more involved. The first thing I did was join a professional sorority. This helped with getting to know and meet a lot of new people, but also to get more involved in my major. The second thing I did was to join a professional organization that would advance my future career. For example I am a pharmacy major and I joined the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists.
After joining two organizations that dealt with my major, I decided to branch out to other things that I found interesting. I joined this awesome writing group called Odyssey. This was a new creative yet academic outlet.
Following another passion, I joined a Spanish health fair run by my college. I am a Spanish minor as well as a future health care provider, and being able to be a part of a group that combines the two was both challenging and rewarding.
At the end of my sophomore year, I made a big jump. I ran for an executive position in my college's chapter of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists. And even though I had no prior experience of leadership in college, I got the position. I was stoked going into my junior year of college. I was motivated and a part of several organizations that I was passionate about.
At the beginning of this year, my junior year, I started taking on bigger responsibilities in ASCP. I also started teaching the on-campus Crossfit class a few times a week. It feels great to be an important cog in a few different organizations. I personally love feeling busy and needed.
In a span of just a few months I went from lazy, un-involved and uninterested into someone who is a part of things. It feels great to have real things to put on my resume, things to feel proud about. If anyone takes anything away from this article, it is to get involved right now. Not only will your resume improve which could lead to more internship and job opportunities but it also makes life way better in college. Belonging to a group is so important in college and I know that I have found my niche.
