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Written by Anonymous
When I first started at Simon Fraser University, I expected my university experience to revolve around lectures, assignments, and exams. Like many students, I thought that succeeding in university meant getting good grades and staying on top of coursework. While academics are certainly important, I quickly realized that some of the most valuable lessons happen outside the classroom.
One of the best decisions I made was joining a student club.
At first, I was hesitant. I wondered if I would have enough time, whether I would fit in, or if joining a club would actually make a difference. Looking back now, I can confidently say that taking that first step completely changed my university experience.
The biggest lesson I learned was the importance of trying new things.
It’s easy to stay within your comfort zone. Between classes, studying, work, and personal commitments, joining another activity can feel overwhelming. I almost convinced myself that it wasn’t worth it. But growth rarely happens when we’re comfortable. Sometimes all it takes is saying “yes” to one opportunity to discover experiences you never expected.
Joining a club introduced me to people I never would have met otherwise. I met students from different years, different programs, and different backgrounds. Everyone brought unique perspectives and experiences, which made every conversation an opportunity to learn something new. Whether we were planning events, brainstorming ideas, or simply chatting between meetings, I found myself becoming more connected to the SFU community.
Another lesson I learned was that everyone starts somewhere.
When you first join a club, it can seem like everyone else already knows each other or understands how everything works. It’s easy to feel like you’re behind. What surprised me was how welcoming people were. Most students remember what it was like to be new, and they’re often happy to answer questions, offer advice, and help you feel included.
That experience reminded me that confidence isn’t something you need before you join, but it’s something you build by showing up consistently.
Being involved also helped me develop skills that aren’t always taught in the classroom. Communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving became part of my everyday experience. Whether it was organizing an event, collaborating with other members, or managing responsibilities, I learned how to work with others toward a common goal. These experiences not only made me more confident but also gave me practical skills that will remain valuable throughout my career.
Perhaps the most unexpected benefit was discovering how much more enjoyable campus life became.
Instead of coming to campus only for classes and heading home afterward, I started looking forward to meetings, events, and seeing familiar faces. Campus slowly transformed from just a place to study into a community where I genuinely felt like I belonged. University became more than earning a degree; it became about building relationships and creating memories.
Trying something new also taught me that opportunities often lead to even more opportunities. One conversation can introduce you to a new friend. One event can help you discover a new interest. One club meeting can lead to leadership positions, networking opportunities, or experiences that shape your future in ways you never imagined. You don’t have to have everything figured out when you start. Instead, you simply have to be willing to take that first step.
For students who are thinking about getting involved but aren’t sure where to begin, my advice is simple: give it a try. Attend a meeting, introduce yourself, and keep an open mind. You don’t have to commit to every opportunity that comes your way, but you’ll never know what you’re capable of if you don’t explore what’s available.
Not every experience will be perfect, and not every club will be the right fit. That’s okay. The goal isn’t to find the “perfect” club immediately. The goal is to keep exploring until you find a community that excites you to get involved.
University is about so much more than lectures and assignments. It’s about discovering who you are, building meaningful connections, and growing through experiences that challenge you to step outside your comfort zone.
Joining a club taught me that trying new things can open doors you never expected. It gave me confidence, introduced me to incredible people, and helped me become more engaged with the SFU community. Looking back, I’m grateful I took that chance.
Sometimes the smallest decision can have the biggest impact on your university journey.