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Getting involved on campus and in the community benefits
students in many ways. Findings from the recent National
Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) show that college
students who are more engaged in civic activities also
gain more during college in terms of ethical development
and contributing to the welfare of their community.
Plus, it can help their grades and their sense of belonging
on campus.
"…the more time and energy students devote
to desired activities, the more likely they are to develop
the habits of the mind that are key to success after
college," says George Kuh, the NSSE director and
Indiana U. Bloomington professor of higher education.
"… engagement is linked to grades and graduation,
outcomes that everyone agrees are important."
This
survey supports what campus professionals have known
for a long time: when students get involved, they tend
to do better academically, feel more connected to campus
and have a healthier social support system. So, when
your student tells you that she'd like to join the school
newspaper staff, participate in Biology Club outings,
tutor kids in an after-school program or play on an
intramural volleyball team, consider supporting her.
Involvement doesn't take away from academics; it enhances
the overall experience. It's important for students
to find their place on campus and involvement is the
key!
Source:
The National Survey of Student Engagement website at
www.iub.edu/~nsse
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