Get Involved!

Meeting new people does not come easy for many students at Vanguard. Having to introduce yourself and make small talk with a stranger just isn’t everyone’s forte, and that’s perfectly fine.

But the truth is, some people forget how important it is to get connected with fellow peers, professors, and clubs on campus. It’s imperative that students build connections during their four years at university. 

By simply introducing yourself to someone on campus, a handful of benefits can possibly come out of it. You never know who knows who, therefore building connections with people around you is extremely important.

In connecting with fellow peers, there is a great possibility that unexpected friendships can develop. Building relationships with professors can make possible mentorships, or leadership positions, accessible to students.

An easy way to build connections with fellow peers and professors is through getting involved on campus. There are countless clubs on campus, and countless possible opportunities for students.

Through connecting with fellow peers, professors, and on-campus clubs, there is a great chance that even future employment opportunities may emerge. Many students have received internships and job opportunities thanks to the connections they’ve built while attending Vanguard University. 

One student who benefitted from getting connected and involved at Vanguard is Senior Xavier Villa. Xavier Villa is a Communications major with an emphasis in Public Relations. It was through his involvement with the Public Relations Students Society of America (PRSSA) chapter at Vanguard, that Xavier will be graduating from Vanguard University already employed within his field of study.

In an interview with Xavier, he was asked whether getting involved at Vanguard has come naturally to him.

“Yeah, it has come naturally because I’d have to say that I’ve always been a people person.” Following this, Xavier shared when and why he began getting involved at Vanguard, “I would say I definitely tried to get more involved freshmen year. I went to all the events and talked to alot of people. Literally I’d say hi to everyone I sat next to.”

Xavier shared how his involvement shifted a bit around sophomore and junior year. This was due to other priorities and the unexpected pandemic, Covid-19, that swept over the U.S..

Xavier explained how recently during his senior year, he’s attempted to get more involved again, “Since it’s my senior year and we got to come back on campus, I decided to try and get more involved. So I became part of the Public Relations Students Society of America (PRSSA) chapter here at VU.”

Xavier carried on to express his gratitude for the PRSSA Chapter and Professor Heinly, who helped him acquire his current job at a PR agency, “If it hadn’t been for getting involved in the PRSSA Chapter, then I wouldn’t have the job I have now…. Honestly, I’d probably still be working at my old job. So I’m extremely grateful for the PRSSA chapter and Professor Heinly.”

Xavier ended with advice for his peers, “I’d encourage everyone to get involved while at Vanguard. By getting involved, you can meet new people and build amazing relationships. Your involvement can be a form of networking that can become beneficial to you in the long run. I’ve heard people say that the people you meet in college will be the people you invite to your wedding, so go out there and make new friends.” 

Go out there, and as Xavier recommended, make new friends!