Student perspectives on joining student organizations

Abstract

This doctoral case study examines student perspectives on joining student organizations. Twenty students participated in focus groups to assist the researcher in learning about why students decide to join clubs and organizations. Through inductive analysis of documentation relevant to current institutional initiatives linked with student organization involvement, NSSE data pertinent to the subject university, and focus group interviews, three key findings emerged. Those findings are belongingness is a key factor to engagement, development of transferable skills is a benefit, and participating in student organizations develops leadership potential. Recommended suggestions for practice include an understanding of the relationship between student organizations and student engagement, utilizing student organizations to develop skills, and understanding student organizations' role in developing leaders. Recommended future research includes conducting similar research at other institutions of higher education, differences between student organization leaders and general membership, understanding why students do not get involved, further exploration on NSSE data results and levels of involvement from freshmen to senior years, and further research on EDI initiatives and student organization involvement with sense of belonging. The study addresses a gap in the literature on why students decide to join student organizations, not only from a benefit of involvement perspective. Keywords: student organizations, student affairs, student engagement, sense of belonging, skill development, leadership development