College at UT has been one of the craziest, most fun and overall best learning experiences I have had in my entire life. I am in many different organizations and try to do as many fun activities while I am here as possible.
My first piece of advice I would give is to not just settle for the bare minimum. One of the big things a lot of people to do in college is join a Social Sorority or Fraternity. This has opened many doors for me and I have loved all the experiences that Sorority life brings. Sorority life has brought me friendship, fun times and opportunities to participate in our philanthropy work plus other organization's philanthropies. By all means you don't have to join a sorority or fraternity to have a great time in college. In addition to my sorority I joined Alpha Kappa Psi the largest Business Fraternity on campus, Boss Dance Company, joined The Odyssey team as a writer, became VP of FTK@UTK, gone on Alternative Fall Break and now have an internship with Greek Graffiti. Also, I became a Group Fitness Instructor and Personal trainer at the TRECS.
All of these organizations/activities I was introduced to through Sorority Life. We either participated in these organizations' events or I knew someone who was in them that told me I should check them out. I really love how many people I have met through all these organizations and I think that everyone should join multiple clubs, groups, or main organizations on campus at some point during their four years here.
In addition to organizations to join, I have recently looked into outdoor activities in and around Knoxville. One new place that I have looked into is Ijams Nature Center. In my opinion, it looks awesome. It is an outdoor nature center full of rope courses, canoes, bikes, hiking and more! Also, if you get the chance to go to the Bluffs near the Woodlands apartments it is an amazing view of Knoxville. There is a great rope swing and a lot of people just go up there to hang out or go down into the "cave" for a little more adventure. I also would recommend looking into UTOP "the outdoor program" and all their fun activities they plan. The students who work for UTOP are some cool kids and they plan trips to the Smokies and find great spots around Knoxville to hike, bike, and kayak. Really anything outdoors they've got you covered! I would have never known about this program if I didn't work at the TRECS.
As you can see everything kind of connects with each other and leads you to new and amazing opportunities. Therefore use your resources and go do something! Go to the green way, Tyson Park or downtown and checkout Market Square. Market Square has shopping, great food and random events throughout the year. With this much to do in Knoxville you will never be bored as long as you open yourself up to all the possibilities! Get out there and enjoy your journey!
