At Randolph-Macon College, we often talk about how students are educated to be ready for the future. But we do not always emphasize how much their involvement outside the classroom contributes to that readiness. RMC’s tradition of meaningful student participation in clubs and organizations as part of their co-curricular experience is not only to have fun and be a part of a community of peers. It is also critical for student learning and applying soft and transferable skills for the future.

A Laboratory for Learning 

Joining a club or organization gives you the chance to explore different leadership roles, collaborate with others, and take on projects without the pressure that comes with professional settings. You can lead a committee, plan an event, or manage a budget—all while having the support of peers and advisors who want to see you succeed. 

Experiential learning through student organization involvement allows you to experiment, make mistakes, and grow without major consequences. You can apply different theories of leadership, practice decision-making, and find out what works best for you. And when things do not go as planned, you will have a supportive network of people at RMC to help you figure it out. 

Building a Toolbox of Transferable Skills 

The list of skills you can refine through student organizations is extensive—and they are exactly the kinds of skills that employers want to see. Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, and time management are just the beginning. You might also develop skills in:

• Organization – Planning events, managing resources effectively, and balancing priorities 
• Public speaking – Presenting to a group, leading meetings, or representing your organization 
• Financial literacy – Creating and managing a budget, fundraising, and handling expenses 
• Technology – Designing promotional materials, managing social media, or working with digital platforms

Mentorship Connections  

Being part of a student organization also opens the door to valuable mentorship opportunities. Peers and faculty/staff advisors, as well as professionals in the Student Engagement Center, can offer guidance and support as you navigate both your college experience and your career path. Having someone who has already been through similar experiences can make a huge difference when you are navigating challenging decisions or figuring out your next steps. 

Mentorship relationships can also expand your professional network, connecting you with people who might open doors to internships, job opportunities, or other valuable experiences.

A High-Impact Experience 

Research consistently indicates that involvement in student clubs and organizations is a high-impact practice in higher education that helps students succeed on campus and transition from college to career. Campus engagement is also linked to higher retention rates. When you feel connected to a community and have a sense of purpose, you are more motivated to push through challenges and stick with it.  

For example, a study from the Center for the Study of Student Life at The Ohio State University (2020) found highly involved students were three times more likely to be considered for a job. Additional research found a correlation between engagement on campus and a likelihood to build meaningful relationships, feel a sense of belonging, and feel more connected to the institution—all of which leads to greater success after graduation (Lopez, 2024).

The Bottom Line

Ask any graduate of RMC, and chances are they will cite a student organization as one of the most beneficial parts of their college experience. For that reason, we like to say that clubs and organizations are not extracurricular, but co-curricular, emphasizing their vital avenues for student learning. It is a chance to build leadership skills, develop relationships with mentors, and learn and apply the soft skills that will make you a standout candidate in the job market in the future. Plus, it makes your college experience more fulfilling and increases your chances of graduating. So go ahead—join a club, take on a leadership role, and embrace the edge that student organizations have to offer at Randolph-Macon College.