Student Involvement combines career prep and GPA boost with fun

If you’ve walked down Haley Concourse on a Wednesday, you’ve almost certainly seen the Involvement Ambassadors (IAs), the representatives of Student Involvement who help people get plugged in on campus. 

“The IAs truly are incredible,” said Amy Shugart, the communications and marketing specialist for Student Involvement. “They are passionate about helping students discover their paths on campus and find meaningful ways to get connected. Their mission is all about empowering students to explore opportunities, build community and make Auburn feel like home.” 

Finding your fit 

The IA team offers one-on-one consultations to students who are interested in getting involved but are unsure of their options, helping countless students discover campus organizations that align with their passions and career goals. 

For many ambassadors, this is the best part of the job. 

“It makes me happy to see people find their passion and where they fit here,” said Montana Maslonka, a sophomore IA who has already developed an extensive involvement resume. “A lot of people I’ve talked to in consultations have ended up running for leadership positions in organizations I’ve recommended, and that’s cool to see.” 

These 15-minute appointments are available between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. every weekday in the Student Involvement Suite at the Melton Student Center, and can be booked on the IA website. 

The IAs also host the Involvement Fair every semester, giving students the opportunity to meet various organizations and decide where they fit. 

“It’s an incredible opportunity for students, especially those new to campus or involvement, to connect with groups they’re interested in, talk with current members and start building their community at Auburn,” said Wyatt Hardee, a senior majoring in chemistry and vice president of outreach for the organization. “Speaking with organization representatives and hearing the large number of students who signed up, made new connections or found a group that truly resonated with them has been deeply rewarding.” 

This fall, the event connected over 4,000 students with more than 200 organizations on campus, all hoping to recruit new members. 

Additionally, the IAs can be found on either Haley Concourse or the second floor of the student center every Wednesday for O-Days. O-Days provide an opportunity for countless organizations to table for free, and the IAs also table and provide support. 

“The reason we love it as IAs is not just helping everyone that’s there, but also using our table as a way to create a space that is easier for students to come to,” said Paige Armstrong, a senior who has been on the team for over three years. “The suite can seem daunting if you’ve never been there, but the concourse can feel like a more approachable and welcoming atmosphere.” 

Get plugged in

Students can get involved with organizations that provide opportunities in governance, leadership, service, programming and media. With over 550 organizations on campus, there’s something for every individual.  

Additionally, students who participate in at least one organization tend to perform better academically than their peers who do not. The average GPA of involved students is 3.43, compared to the campus average of 3.35.

“No matter what role or organization you get involved in, even if it’s not directly related to your major or career goals, it will help you reach them,” Maslonka said. “When you get involved in something, you’re held to certain standards. You have to get things done on time and balance multiple responsibilities, and that will translate to any career.” 

IAs encourage all students to find organizations that provide them with a space to make connections and grow — even if they feel intimidated. 

“Organizations want people who are passionate and have a good mindset, regardless of age, major or any other factor you may see as a limitation,” Armstrong said. “If students are passionate and want to work hard and learn, there’s no reason not to try Involvement.”