NIU students have 176 campus organizations to choose from this fall which can contribute to their personal growth, career contacts, interpersonal relationships and more, but the key is knowing which group can best satisfy each student’s interests.

Zainal “Z” Ahmed, University Programming and Activities Program Coordinator, said there are basically twelve categories of student organizations which include all 176 groups.

e said the twelve categories of student groups include these areas: academics, ethnics, media, politics, performing arts, religion, recreation, social, service, resident halls, greek groups and honors.

Although there is no current record of NIU student participation, Ahmed said about one-third to one-half of all NIU students participate to some degree in campus organizations.

Ahmed said, “I would strongly urge students to get involved. Getting involved will help them to get to others who have the same interests and also would like to do the same kind of things. Research has indicated that students who are involved in college are more likely to stay in college.”

Ahmed said campus organizations offer many membership benefits including recognition by national organizations, contacts with people in other areas and the opportunity to broaden their perspectives by doing something different while building a support group.

He said experience can be gained frequently in an organization and can be applied to job requirements after graduation. He said some awards earned by organizations have even been recognized in presidential programs sponsored by the White House.

“Students should join campus organizations, if not for anything but the experience. The most important is human skills. Human relations skills. Learn how to work with others and joining an organization is the best way to do it,” Ahmed said.

He said organizations on campus, currently registered by his office, are listed on page 40 through 44 of the NIU Student Handbook. He said anyone looking for information on these clubs can call 753-1421.

Jennifer Spaulding, CAB Special Events Coordinator said, “I think one of the most important benefits would be to get some hands-on experience organizing and planning events. One of the fringe benefits would be meeting a lot of nice people and having a lot of fun in general.”

Some of the NIU student organizatins listed in the student handbook include, WKDI AM/FM, a media service organization; The Black Student Union, which sponsors cultural activities and increases awareness of services available to black students.

Other student groups include Circle K Club of NIU. This club focuses mainly on helping handicapped youth and elderly in the community.

There are many Greek organizations which offer students the opportunity to make friends among fraternity and sorority members.

The Campus Ministries Association includes many, but not all, of the churches on and around campus.