Get involved in student life

Institutions of higher education welcome committed students, and you can be active in different student associations based on your interests. These may be to do with sports, music, culture, stage productions or similar, but also student organisations such as student unions and sections where you can get involved in issues concerning your education and your higher education institution.  

Why get involved? 

Many students are drawn to higher education not only for the studies, but also for the social aspects of student life - the opportunity to meet new people and create memorable experiences. As a new student, much will feel unfamiliar, but there are also many exciting opportunities waiting for you. Dare to explore! By getting involved in different associations or organisations, you might discover interests you didn’t know you had. It’s an excellent way to expand your social circle, meet people from different backgrounds, and gain new skills. If English isn’t your native language, being active outside your studies can also help you develop your language skills in a natural and enjoyable way.

Gain new perspectives 

Being an active student gives you a broader perspective on what student life can be. You can work on matters you find meaningful, try new activities, experience student culture, attend formal events, or help organise major activities that benefit other students. You become part of something larger, where you can contribute while also learning more about yourself.

Engagement also provides a healthy balance to your academic studies. Maybe you have a meeting to attend, an event to plan, or something to work on with your group. Through these activities, you encounter new challenges, take on responsibility, meet new people, and grow personally and socially.

Sustainable involvement 

Being a volunteer in a student union, association or similar group is fun and good for personal development but can also sometimes be tough and challenging. While it can be difficult to find the time for both studies and a commitment, being involved in something you are passionate about can give you energy, and you also get to participate in an enjoyable social context. 

In order for you and your group to be sustainable, it’s important that you discuss expectations on commitment levels, for the group and for you as an individual.  

Questions to discuss in the group: 

• What are the goals of your assignment?
• What expectations do you have as a group and on what each group member should contribute? 
• Is there enough time for the goals you set?
• Do you have a reasonable level of ambition? 
• How can you help each other in setting boundaries and saying no when needed?  

After these discussions, remember to check in with yourself regularly. Consider what your responsibilities include and whether they are reasonable alongside your studies. Sustainable engagement means respecting your own limits while still enjoying your involvement.

What to do if involvement gets overwhelming 

• Set aside time for your commitment.
  How much time do you need, how much time can you spare, and where does it fit in your weekly schedule? Schedule a time each week to evaluate and plan ahead. 
• Book time for recovery.
  It’s important that you have time for uninterrupted recovery, where you can let go of anything that requires performance. 
• Say no when necessary.
  It can be hard to say no to a fun assignment or to helping someone else, but you may not have the time or the energy at that moment. In the end, it may be too much for you. Prioritise what is most important and what will make you feel good in the long run.
• Look after yourself.
  Eat well, make sure you get the sleep you need, stay active, spend time outdoors so you get daylight.  

 

Last updated: 2026-03-10