How to help your student get involved

Students who become involved on campus and in the community enhance their overall experiences at the University of Mississippi and gain skills for their professional careers. By encouraging their involvement, you are helping them achieve success.

Getting involved is much more than just joining a student organization. It is taking advantage of the resources, people, departments and opportunities the university and the Oxford community provide. As assistant dean for student involvement, I want to highlight some ways in which students can take part in what the university and community offer and help them navigate their options.

Academics

Whether students know exactly what they want to do or they are undecided, encourage them to talk with their advisers, professors and instructors for guidance and direction.  The online catalog has every major the university provides and is a great resource for students trying to find their academic path.
Learn about majors at the university: catalog.olemiss.edu

Departments

UM departments exist to help students with their academics, career decisions, health and personal growth. The Office of the Dean of Students, Student Activities Association, Career Center, Study Abroad, Health Promotions, and the Center for Writing and Rhetoric are just a few examples of resources where students can plug into their passions and get help or guidance. Another avenue is divisional organizations within the student’s major or department of study.
List of departments on campus: olemiss.edu/directories.html

Student Organizations

UM has more than 250 active student organizations. From major-associated to student-interest organizations, we like to think there is something here for everyone. Student organizations are a great way for students to find their niche and meet like-minded individuals. We encourage you to help your student find a club, organization or activity that suits his or her needs and interests.
List of all student organizations: dos.olemiss.edu/stuorgssearch

Oxford Community

Students may get involved with such Oxford entities as businesses, concerts, art festivals and nonprofits. Volunteer Oxford is a great resource for volunteerism. Helpful websites are listed below.
Oxford community information: http://visitoxfordms.com
Volunteering in Oxford: http://volunteeroxford.org/

Sports and Recreation

A lot of options are available for sports lovers or those who just like to be active. Campus Recreation’s intramural sports, Ole Miss Outdoors and sport clubs, and city rec leagues are all ways in which students can get involved.
Campus Recreation: https://campusrec.olemiss.edu/
Community Adult Leagues:  http://www.oxfordparkcommission.com/

I would like to help your student have a positive experience at the University of Mississippi, so please contact me if you or your student has questions or needs guidance on what opportunities are available.

J. Coulter Ward
Assistant Dean of Students
Phone: 662-915-7248
Email: jcward@olemiss.edu or getinvolved@olemiss.edu
Twitter:@GetInvolvedUM
http://dos.orgsync.com/getinvolved