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The Three Types of Student Organizations You Should Join

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Washington chapter.

When attempting to meet new people on campus, the most frequently offered piece of advice is to “join an RSO,” and for good reason: Registered Student Organizations, more commonly known as RSOs, are clubs designed to explore your interests in a supportive environment. There are over a thousand RSOs you can choose from, and with so many options, it can be daunting figuring out which organizations you want to invest your time in. If you’re feeling a little lost, or simply want to explore your options, here are three types of RSOs that every student should consider joining: 

1. Professional Development

Looking to learn more about a potential industry? Or to network with like-minded people? Joining an organization that helps sharpen your professional skills is always beneficial. There is an RSO for almost every profession you can think of — from marketing associations, to engineering societies, to pre-law and pre-med fraternities — and they can help you figure out what you want to do after your time at UW. There are also RSOs that allow you to develop your portfolio, including organizations themed around writing, design, photography, and other means of creative expression. Through joining a professional development organization, you’re allowed to explore skills you’ll need in the working world, which you can never learn enough about.

2. Student Unions and Associations

With over 35,000 undergrads, it’s no secret that UW is a huge school. As a result, sometimes it’s difficult to find a sense of community. Student associations, including those revolving around culture or philanthropy, are a great way to combat this problem. These organizations don’t just help you meet new people, but also develop a sense of social identity through community engagement. They can also have an abundance of on-campus resources for its members. Joining a student union or association will allow you to meet those with similar experiences or similar ideals, and at a large university, that’s such a worthwhile advantage. 

3. Exploring Your Hobbies

The point of participating in extracurricular activities is to get something out of it, to have fun! By joining an RSO that is just for your entertainment, it allows you to take a much needed break from school and other responsibilities. Do you have a hobby that you never have time for anymore? There is most likely a club for that. Have you always wanted to try something new, but never found the right community? There is most likely a club for that. RSOs are meant to connect people with similar interests, and pursuing your hobbies is a great way to connect with others in a setting that is less academically focused. 

RSOs are a great way to get involved on campus! If you want to start your search, make sure to visit Husky Link to see the RSO Directory, upcoming events, and the latest news involving student organizations.

Annie Melnick

Washington '24

Annie is an alum of Her Campus UW. She graduated from the University of Washington in 2024 with her BA in English and a minor in GWSS. Annie grew up in Los Angeles, and is a self-described bookworm, reality competition show superfan, and coffee connoisseur, among other things.