All across the country, college campuses are flourishing with diversity. From students of different races and ethnicities, to all men’s and all women's colleges turning coeducational, to members of the LGBTQ community becoming more visible, it’s important for different backgrounds to have a safe place—a place where they not only feel at home but where they can celebrate and share their culture too. Clubs are the perfect environment to meet people who share the same interests as you, connect with people from similar backgrounds, or learn from those with different ones. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of these clubs on any campus. Most colleges have hundreds of clubs that cater to any interest. Here are just a few with chapters found at colleges and universities across the country.
1. Black Student Alliance
From Virginia Tech to the University of Colorado Boulder, the Black Student Alliance is a club found at most colleges and universities that exhibits a commitment to diversity. The organization is dedicated to promoting the unity of those in the Black community. From poets and painters to public speakers, the BSA holds events and entertainment opportunities with representation for everyone in the Black community.
2. Girl Up
Sorority life isn’t for everyone, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other opportunities to connect with other women and embrace female empowerment. With over 246 club leaders all over the world, Girl Up aims to promote health, education, and safety among women. They’ve even partnered with the UN to reach more women globally.
3. Chinese Students and Scholars Association
The Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA) is a worldwide organization that aims to support Chinese students who are studying outside of China. The CSSA brings together Chinese students to provide support in their new environment as well as with school, work, and other parts of daily life. The association holds events celebrating Chinese culture on many different campuses, from Harvard University to the University of California Los Angeles.
Related: 4 Ways You Bring Culture and Diversity to Your College
4. Muslim Students Association
MSA National is made up of Muslim students who are raising awareness for their culture in the US and Canada. They want to educate and empower others and members of their own community, with a big emphasis on bringing a positive light to their culture and correcting any wrong assumptions about Muslim people. The association's philosophy is backed by love and a desire to spread Islamic culture.
5. Society for Advancement of Hispanics/Chicanos and Native Americans in Science
The Society for Advancement of Hispanics/Chicanos and Native Americans in Science is an organization for students of these backgrounds who are pursuing careers in the STEM fields. The society aims to bring a more innovative face to the science world through mentoring and weaving your culture and heritage into your science learning. The group works as an advocate to gain more representation of minorities working in STEM.
6. Gay-Straight Alliance
As one of the most well-known clubs in high school, the GSA Network also has a place in colleges. As a group fighting for tolerance and acceptance, they have created a safe environment for any member of the LGBTQ+ community. The organization provides support for students who are struggling with their identity and even has specialized help for supporting students of color to explore their intersectional identities and unique experiences within the community. People who identify as allies also have a place in the club to connect with others, become more educated, and support the community.
Related: What Cultural Organizations Are Available in College?
Not every campus will have all the same clubs, and this is just a sample of the diverse national organizations you'll find in college. There is almost a guarantee your college will have a group that fits who you are—honoring your ethnicity, your sexual identity, your religion, or maybe all three. Even if you aren't part of some of these communities, many clubs are open to accepting any members who want to appreciate and learn. If there’s a specific club that your college doesn’t have, you may be interested in opening a chapter of the organization at your school. Contact your college or university’s student government or Student Life Office for information on how to do it!
Whether you're still in high school or new to college, you can also start learning how to start your own club with our advice right here on CX!
