Student interest groups and societies are an integral part of campus life. They offer a platform for students to pursue their passions, develop their skills and talents and form meaningful relationships with their peers. However, the potential of student interest groups goes beyond the success of individual students. They can also be a powerful instrument for the university’s advancement in various areas. By identifying areas of mutual benefit between student interest groups and institutional goals, universities can leverage student interest groups to drive positive changes.
Based on our partnership experience with student interest groups at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), below you will find insights into how universities can work with these groups to pursue shared interests, adding value to both student development and the university’s broader objectives.
Campus experience
Freshmen orientation: The first few weeks of university life can be overwhelming for freshmen, especially non-local students. Student interest groups can help these students integrate into the campus community. By partnering with student interest groups, universities can organise orientation events that cater to the diverse interests of freshmen. For example, a performing arts club can organise lunchtime concerts for those who are music enthusiasts, while a sports club can offer trial experience sessions for those who enjoy physical activities. These events can help freshmen feel welcome and connect with like-minded peers.
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Cross-cultural integration: Universities are increasingly diverse, with students arriving from all over the world. Student interest groups can promote cross-cultural understanding and integration. By leveraging these groups’ strengths and interests, universities can organise a series of cultural exchange events that showcase the rich diversity of the student community. For example, a recreational club can offer a world board games night, while a cultural club can host traditional food-tasting events during different festivals. These activities help foster cross-cultural understanding and appreciation, ultimately enriching the campus experience for all students.
Extracurricular growth: Partnering with student interest groups to offer a wide range of student-centred activities can foster students’ extracurricular growth beyond classroom learning. For example, to nurture potential emcees for university events, universities can partner with public-speaking groups to run themed workshops. Universities can also engage recreational groups to provide fun and fulfilling activities for disadvantaged groups, such as the elderly or underprivileged families. Student members of the interest groups not only serve the needy through their interests and passions but also reflect on and learn from the encounters.
University development
High school student recruitment: Recruiting high-quality high school students is a top priority for many universities, and student interest groups can be a valuable asset in attracting students who are seeking vibrant university experiences. By incorporating student societies into high school student recruitment events such as “information days”, universities can showcase the diverse and enriching campus life they offer. Additionally, current club members can serve as ambassadors, sharing their personal experiences and enthusiasm for the university with prospective students. These interactions can have a significant impact on the decisions of prospective students, because they can gain a deeper understanding of the university’s culture and community through the perspectives of current students.
University image building: A strong and diverse offering of student groups and societies can significantly enhance a university’s image. By supporting and promoting these groups, the university can demonstrate its commitment to providing a well-rounded education and nurturing a vibrant campus environment. To reinforce its branding, the university can regularly showcase successful initiatives and external awards garnered by student groups that align with its preferred image. These initiatives can be promoted across different marketing channels to attract positive attention from prospective students, alumni, donors and the local and global communities. For example, news about a student entrepreneurship club winning an external award can add value to the university’s international reputation as a “pioneering” institution.
Sense of belonging: Fostering a sense of belonging among students can greatly contribute to their overall satisfaction with the university experience. By partnering with student interest groups, universities can offer students a platform for them to connect with like-minded peers and form lasting friendships. These groups can offer various workshops, events, competitions and many other opportunities for members to connect with one another. This sense of belonging not only contributes to students’ personal well-being but also enhances their engagement with the university community. Students who feel a sense of belonging are more likely to contribute positively to university life and develop social skills that can benefit them beyond their academic pursuits.
Student interest groups are a great asset to the university. Partnering with student interest groups can help universities create a campus conducive to whole-person development, which can benefit the university in the long run. The key is to engage these groups in a meaningful way that aligns with their interests and passions as well as with the university’s goals. By doing so, universities can leverage the potential of student interest groups to foster a positive campus experience, advance university development and benefit the wider community.
Kelly Lam is associate dean of students at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU).
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