Campus Clubs at STLCC: How to Get Involved and Why It Matters
July 21, 2025
Posted by STLCC in Campus Life
College can feel like stepping into a whole new world. New classes. New people. New experiences. Exciting, sure, but it can also be overwhelming.
Between getting use to professors, managing homework and, quite likely, working, it’s easy to think, “Do I really have time for clubs or activities?” But one of the best ways to find your path—and your people—is by joining one of the many STLCC campus clubs and student organizations.
Through clubs, you’ll meet students who share your interests, build confidence in your abilities and discover new sides of yourself that might surprise you.
Making Friends at STLCC: Finding Your Community Through Campus Clubs
One of the hardest parts of starting college is finding your place and building connections. Even if you’re naturally outgoing, meeting new people can feel intimidating at first.
That’s where campus clubs make a difference. When you join a club that centers on something you already care about—whether it’s a cultural club, gaming group or outdoor adventure organization—you’re instantly connected with students who share your interests and values.
That shared foundation makes starting conversations easier and helps you feel a sense of belonging from day one.
“Some of the strongest friendships I have made at STLCC have been through my clubs,” said student Jessica Wynn. “I am part of Crochet Club at STLCC-Meramec, and before this club it was easy to feel like I was one of the only people at school with this interest, but I was able to form a tight-knit group of people who shared the same interests as me.
“I might not have even met my friends if it weren’t for our club because we all have different majors and life experiences, but now I feel like I have lifelong friendships.”
Friendships that begin in clubs often go deeper than just chatting in class. You’re working together on events, meeting regularly and sharing goals. That kind of teamwork builds strong bonds and can provide a sense of belonging to the community, which can help self-esteem and even your grades.
Building Confidence and Leadership Skills Through Student Organizations
Clubs at STLCC give students a safe space to try things they’ve never done before.
Never planned a fundraiser, run a meeting or spoken in public? You’ll probably get the chance to do all of that and more.
Trying something new can be intimidating, but it’s also how growth happens. Campus clubs let you take healthy risks in a supportive environment, surrounded by people who want to see you succeed.
Every time you take on a new challenge, you build confidence—not just within your club, but in everyday life.
Roach serves as president of the Pride Alliance Club and the Creative Writers Club at Wildwood. She’s also an active member of the Culture Club, New Student Programs Summer Book Club and the Music Appreciation Special Interest Group.
Through clubs like these, students gain hands-on leadership experience that can’t be learned in a classroom. These opportunities strengthen communication, organization and teamwork—skills that transfer directly to the workplace and look great on a resume.
Wynn, another student leader, is a member of the Campus Activities Board (CAB), which plans campus events. She said collaborating with other students toward a shared goal has been one of her most valuable life lessons.
“I have experienced so much personal growth over the past few years because of the clubs I participate in. Through CAB, I was able to see what it was like to plan fun activities from start to finish,” she said. “We brainstormed ideas, made posters advertising our events, allocated funds for supplies and food, ran our events and cleaned up afterward.
During events, I spoke in front of large groups of my peers for things like bingo and trivia. Putting yourself out there can be hard, but when you have a good team, they support and encourage you to keep going. Ultimately, I have so much pride for my part in putting together and running each event.”
Improve Your Academic Success With Phi Theta Kappa
It might sound unexpected, but getting involved in clubs can actually help you perform better in class.
Research shows that students who participate in campus activities often have higher GPAs than those who don’t. Why? Because being part of a club helps you build real time management skills. When you know you have a meeting or event coming up, you start planning ahead, finishing assignments early and using your time more effectively.
Some clubs directly connect to academics. Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), an international honor society, recognizes students for academic excellence and helps them grow as leaders. It also provides scholarship opportunities and professional networking that can make a lasting impact.
"Active PTK members have been recognized with state and national scholarships,” said Sandra Arumugam-Osburn, EdD, advisor for the Phi Theta Kappa chapter at STLCC–Forest Park. “They have also had the chance to network with other PTK scholars from around the world and learn from well-renowned thought leaders at our conferences."
Joining PTK shows your professors and future employers that you’re serious about your education and committed to your community. It signals dedication, discipline and a genuine interest in doing more than what’s required—qualities that stand out long after graduation.
Stand Out to Employers: How Campus Clubs Build Career-Ready Skills
Employers look for more than a high GPA. They want to know what kind of person you are—someone who can lead, communicate and solve problems.
Campus clubs give you a place to build and practice those skills.
For example, if you’re part of the Veterans Club and help organize a supply drive for veterans in need, you’re showing leadership, teamwork and commitment to service. Managing the Horticulture Club’s social media account demonstrates experience in digital marketing. Serving on the Campus Activities Board to plan a campus talent show highlights your ability to coordinate projects and work under deadlines.
Each of these experiences strengthens your resume and gives you real stories to share during job interviews—proof that you can take initiative and collaborate effectively.
Supporting Your Mental Health and Well-being Through Campus Clubs
College life can be stressful. Balancing classes, relationships, finances and future goals takes effort. That’s why it’s important to have a space where you can unwind and connect with others.
Clubs provide that outlet. They give you something positive to look forward to, especially during challenging weeks. Whether you’re creating art with the Clay Club or spending Friday nights with the Dungeons and Dragons Club, these moments help you recharge and care for your mental health.
According to the American College Health Association study “Measuring Well-being in a College Campus Setting,” students who feel connected to their campus are less likely to experience depression and anxiety. Clubs help create that connection. They remind you that you’re not alone—and that your college experience is about more than grades and deadlines.
Explore Interests and Discover Passions With STLCC Clubs
College is about exploration, and STLCC clubs make that journey easier. Maybe you want to try your hand at journalism, support the LGBTQIA+ community or learn how to cook dishes from around the world. College gives you the freedom to experiment and see what excites you.
What starts as a “just for fun” activity can sometimes grow into something bigger. Many students discover new career interests or professional skills through clubs they joined on a whim. Whether it’s writing for a student publication, volunteering or organizing campus events, these experiences can spark passions that shape your future.
How to Get Involved in Campus Clubs: Step-by-Step Guide
Not sure where to begin? Follow these simple steps to get involved in STLCC campus clubs and student organizations:
Step 1: Visit the STLCC Campus Life page
Check the campus life page for the most up-to-date list of clubs and contact information. Don’t see a club that matches your interests? You can start your own. Just visit the “Club Resources” section on the same page to learn how to apply.
Step 2: Attend the Club Expo
Each semester, during the second week, clubs set up tables to share information about their activities. Locations vary by campus and semester, so take some time to walk around and talk to members. You don’t have to commit right away, just explore and see what opportunities resonate with you.
Step 3: Try a Few Clubs
It’s normal to attend multiple meetings before choosing a club. This gives you the chance to see what feels like the best fit. STLCC clubs welcome new members with open arms, so don’t hesitate to check out a few options.
Step 4: Bring a Friend
If you’re feeling nervous, invite a friend to join you. Trying something new is often easier and more enjoyable with backup.
Step 5: Start Your Own Club
If you don’t find a club that matches your interests, maybe it’s a sign to create one. STLCC makes it easy to get started. Visit the “Club Resources” section on the campus life page for instructions on forming a new student organization.
Why Joining STLCC Clubs Can Transform Your College Experience
College isn’t just about attending classes. It’s about discovering who you are, who you want to become, and the kind of life you want to build.
Getting involved in STLCC campus clubs and student organizations gives you opportunities to grow, connect with others, and thrive—not just in school, but far beyond it.
The next time you see a flyer for a club meeting or campus event, take a chance. Say yes. Show up. You might discover a new hobby, uncover a passion, or even find a path that shapes your future.
Most importantly, you might even discover more about yourself.
