Finding the right campus organization can dramatically enhance your experience at Tarleton State University. Student organizations give you opportunities to enhance your academic program, explore new interests, develop skills, and have an impact on the University and community around you. With over one hundred recognized student organizations here at Tarleton, there is an organization for every student.

So you want to get involved, but you may be wondering how to find the best group for you. You've made a good start by beginning the investigation process here. We have helpful staff and lots of information to start you on your way.

First, to find out what kind of an organization you are interested in, ask yourself some of these questions:

• What am I looking for in an organization?
• Do I primarily want to make new friends?
• Do I want to work on something I believe in?
• Do I want to explore something new?
• Should I be in a group that relates to my major or career choice?
• Do I want a break from my academics?
• Shall I continue an interest from high school?
• Do I want to be of real service to the campus or community?
• Do I want to help make events happen at Tarleton?
• How much time do I have for an organization?
• Do I mind if there are financial considerations a specific organization?

Second, find out what type of organization you would be interested in joining by these categories:

• Club Sports
  Organizations affiliated with Recreational Sports, which promote particular athletic interests.
• Departmental
  Organizations related to a particular academic area or field of study.
• Greek Fraternities
  Nationally affiliated societies and organizations for men.
• Greek Sororities
  Nationally affiliated societies and organizations for women.
• Local Honorary Societies
  Locally affiliated organizations that represent membership of students with high academic standards either by classification or by special areas of study.
• Music
  Organizations dedicated to the encouragement of the performing arts.
• National Honorary Societies
  Nationally affiliated organizations that represent membership of students with high academic standards either by classification or by special areas of study.
• Professional
  Organizations formed to promote particular interest in a student's professional future career. Most of the professional organizations are nationally based.
• Religious
  Organizations that exist to provide a religious and social outlet for students.
• Service / Social
  Organizations or groups organized (either nationally or locally) that render service to the campus or Stephenville community and who promote social activities for interested students.
• Special Interest
  Organizations created and maintained to stimulate the special areas not associated with any academic department.
• Spirit
  Organizations dedicated to the encouragement of spirit and support of Tarleton athletics.
• Student Services
  Organizations that operate under the umbrella of the Division of Student Services with programs benefiting the entire campus.

Third, get more information on the organizations.

The best way to find out more information is by looking at the Student Activities Website, talking to organizations at the organizational fairs (during Texan Tours, Duck Camp, or at the Traditions Rally), or by contacting the president of the organization you’re looking at. Other good resources include:

• Resident Advisors
• Professors
• Peer Advisors
• Classmates
• Boards and Banners
• Kiosks
• Bulletin Boards
• Members of Organizations
• Interfraternity, Panhellenic and Ethnic Greek Councils

Remember that most organizations are far more nervous about recruiting you, than you may be about joining them. They really do want new members and are very eager to answer your questions and explain their activities and purposes. Most groups have "Mass Meetings" at the beginning of each term. These are open to any interested student. You're under no obligation to join the group if you attend - it's simply a chance for you to get more information and for the group to learn of your interest. If you miss a mass meeting or find out about a group during the year, call a contact person and ask when the next meeting is. If meeting times and programs are posted, you can always assume you're welcome.

Of course, some organizations, such as honoraries, fraternities and sororities, have selected memberships so be sure to find out the particulars in these cases. Once you've joined an organization, don't just sit back and wait for something to happen. Introduce yourself to people, ask questions, express ideas and be sure to volunteer your time and energy. You won't feel like a real member of a group until you're a contributing member.