Getting Involved at Drexel

Our guest blogger for the post below is Kayla Alford, a current Drexel senior majoring in communication.

When I decided to go to Drexel, I knew I was not going to have the traditional college experience. No one else from my school's graduating class in Brooklyn, New York applied to Drexel. Many of them had never even heard of the school. Going into my five-year journey, I knew the saying "college is what you make it" would ring true for me.

Drexel's size means there is always an opportunity to get involved on campus and beyond. Whether you find opportunities on the University website, are nominated by faculty, or hear about it in your residence hall, I have learned that Drexel will always find a way to ensure your personal growth to prepare you for life after college.

Drexel amplifies different opportunities for students who might not always know where to look.

I became a manager for the men's basketball team in my first year after I saw it available as a work-study position. While I did not have work-study, I took a chance and asked anyway. The professional staff allowed me to help as a volunteer, and my roommate at the time did the same. It helped strengthen our bond with each other and allowed us to meet other women interested in working in the sports industry. Through the team, I have also had the opportunity to travel both within the country and abroad. From tournaments in Washington, D.C. and Florida to roaming the streets of Italy in the summer, I know that these opportunities are unique to Drexel. This team has become my family away from home and is something I am proud to be a part of.

Even if you are not actively searching for on-campus roles, sometimes they can come to you. Going into my third year at Drexel, I was nominated to represent communication majors on the College of Arts and Sciences' Student Advisory Board. In this role, I assist with recruiting students to the college by participating in recruitment events and speaking with the college's leadership to raise awareness of what is important to students. Through this role, I have been able to represent my community, build my leadership skills, and connect with people within the college.

Drexel amplifies different opportunities for students who might not always know where to look. Living in the dorms, each floor has a resident assistant (RA) that helps students navigate the university. When the time comes, Drexel encourages students to apply for the role. The first time I did, the pandemic interrupted my chances, but now I am living and working as an RA in the first-year dorms. Through this role, I have grown as a leader and a mentor, while also learning about campus resources available to all.

While we might not have the traditional experience you see at other universities, there is never a dull moment at Drexel, and plenty of ways to get involved on campus.