Student life and Organizations
As a native Norfolkian, I hesitantly submitted my application to ODU with low expectations regarding the social scene. I assumed that I had already experienced what the university had to offer as far as social activities seeing as it’s practically in my back yard. I had gone to some football games, heard all of the football games, crashed certain greek life events being hosted near my neighborhood, and word on the street was that “commuter kids,” such as myself, struggle to associate themselves with the more lesser known clubs and organizations on campus. However, upon actually attending Old Dominion, the clouds of apathy lifted and the sunlight peeking through led me down a path all the way to the Student Organization Fair where I learned that my school truly has something for everyone. Whether a student is searching for something social, political, environmental, or even food related, ODU is sure to have it… and if it doesn’t then students are encouraged to start their own club!
Here’s a breakdown of what’s offered at Old Dominion University:
Social:
Simply put, these are the clubs that are more geared towards meeting new people with similar interests in a relaxed setting. Social clubs include Sororities and Fraternities of all types with different missions, values, and philanthropic goals, club sports for those who enjoy playing, but don’t necessarily qualify for that D1 title ODU so proudly holds, there are various religious organizations ranging from Catholic to Islamic, LGBT oriented clubs, and even groups for rather niche interests such as the Horror Club, Film Club, and for those future disc jockeys, wODU radio. In addition to clubs that require a membership, ODU offers free, slightly lesser known events around campus. These underground and slightly under appreciated activities include Bad Movie Nights, Planetarium shows, and PAW events for students on the weekends!
Political:
Whether you bleed politics and love to argue, or simply want to learn more about a party’s ideals, ODU has an array of political oriented clubs such as Young Republicans/ Democrats, Turning Point USA, Student Government Association, and Young Democrat Socialists of America. There are even clubs that discuss how social conventions and politics should successfully coexist regardless of race, religion, gender, etc. It’s easier than ever to find somewhere you fit in.
Environmental:
For all those students looking to change the planet for the better, ODU certainly has the club to help kickstart environmental reform. Whether you’re the proud owner of a green thumb, or just really into science, organizations ranging from the Marine Biology Student Association to the Association of Environmental Engineering Students are at your disposal. Being in such a diverse location easily allows clubs like the Environmental Club, the Botanical Society of America, and the National Environmental Health Association to flourish and thrive like flowers in spring.
Miscellaneous:
Lastly, but most importantly, there are those clubs that don’t quite fit under a category or label, but that certainly doesn't make them any less important. Clubs and organizations that deal with outdoor activities, health and wellness, student housing, languages, and most importantly… food, have a very important place amongst the intimidating number of organizations students can choose from. If you’re vegan/ vegetarian, love the french language, are planning to become a personal trainer, love waffles more than anyone else you know, or simply want to start a club centered around certain passions and interests then look no further, you’ve found your place in the good ole 757.
All in all, ODU is a place of innovation and enlightenment, whether in the classroom or simply hanging out, regardless of time, date, interest, or activity there’s always something to do.
~ Laurel Patterson