But as the school year progresses, the majority of first-year college students adapt to life on campus and grow to love their new surroundings. Once students have comfortably adapted to their new lives, many seek opportunities to become more actively involved in life on campus.

College clubs and organizations are a great way to do just that, providing a host of benefits that further enhances college life.

Meet people

Joining a student club or organization is a great way for college students to meet fellow students, professors and other people of note on campus. This is especially beneficial for first-year college students, whose social circle may otherwise be limited to roommates or fellow residents of their dormitories.

Joining a club or student organization can quickly expand that social circle to include people who share your interests and not just your dorm assignment.

Find a major

Many first-year college students are unsure about a course of study, enrolling as an undeclared. Such students can benefit from joining clubs or student organizations that pique their interests. For example, joining an on-campus debate club might help you discover a passion for debate, which can lead down a path to becoming a lawyer.

Students who enroll in college without declaring a major may have the most to gain by joining a club or organization. Boost your GPA Joining a club or student organization also may make you a better student. That’s especially likely for students who join a club or organization that’s aligned with their field of study.

A club or organization can help you apply lessons from the classroom in real-world situations, improving your grasp of certain concepts. In addition, your fellow club members may make great teachers, especially those who are ahead of you and have taken many of the same classes you’re now taking or can expect to take down the road.

Such students can be invaluable resources, helping explain concepts and offering advice as to which courses to take and which professors they prefer. Network with professionals Clubs and campus organizations also are a great way to begin networking with professionals in your future line of work.

Many clubs or organizations bring in professionals within the field to speak to members. Such speeches and discussions are typically members-only, which means you will have an advantage over fellow students in your field of study who have not gone the extra mile and joined a club or organization.

Professionals may also give you advice on finding an internship in your field or a job once you have graduated. Improve your overall experience Even if a student club or organization has nothing to do with your studies or your future career, signing up is a great way to improve your overall college experience.

You’re liable to create more memories, make more friends and get the most out of your time on campus, which many college seniors will tell you is going to be gone before you know it. Take advantage of all of the opportunities your college or university offers, and you will likely one day look back and be glad you made the most of your time on campus.