How to Get Involved on Barnard's Campus

Academics are important, but there is much more to a college experience than just classes. It is important for students to find ways to get involved and connect with the Barnard community. With clubs, jobs, and more, there are many different opportunities for students to get involved on campus. 

Student Organizations

During my first semester at Barnard, I attended an activities fair where many of Barnard’s different student organizations were on display. Barnard has around 80 clubs that students can participate in, not including some 500 clubs at Columbia University that Barnard students can join. These range from pre-professional clubs, performing arts clubs, book clubs, non-profit organizations, multi-cultural and identity organizations, and more. In my first year, I joined Columbia’s Muslim Students Association, the Columbia Musical Theatre Society, and She’s the First (which is a non-profit organization that raises money for girls’ education around the world). Joining these clubs allowed me to meet new people and further explore different interests outside of my classes. Students can form their own clubs as well. Some students also choose to participate in Greek Life by joining a sorority, which is another great way for students to get involved in their college community. Barnard students also have the opportunity to compete in Division I athletics at Columbia or participate in Student Government.  

Different organizations on campus also put on a variety of events and performances for students to participate in. Barnard’s Student Life also organizes many different events and programs, including performances, discussions, workshops, leadership opportunities, and more to get students engaged outside of classes. 

Beyond Barnard and Campus Jobs 
Student jobs are also a good way to get involved on campus. Many students are offered a work-study or Barnard College job as part of their financial aid package, and it is especially convenient to be able to work on campus. Working on campus is also a great way to learn about the different resources on campus and make connections. On-campus jobs include being a student admissions representative/tour guide, peer tutor, working in the library, mailroom, Barnard store, and much more. There are also the Barnard Babysitting and Barnard Bartending programs that allow students to work jobs around the city, giving students the opportunity to make connections both on campus and in NYC as a whole. Beyond Barnard, our career-service center, provides many resources for students to find jobs on campus, off-campus, and after graduating. Beyond Barnard connects students on campus to alumni and mentors from a variety of different fields and career paths. 

I’m very excited for the time I’ll be spending on Barnard’s campus for the next few years, and to find new ways to get involved in this incredible community. Overall, no matter where your interests lie, there are hundreds of different ways for you to make your mark on campus. 

-Zaynad Sulaiman