May 31, 2022

16 Fun College Orientation Activities & Icebreakers to Encourage Student Engagement in 2022!

May 31, 2022/ Stephanie Chandra

For many students, college orientation can be their first experience on their own. As they embark on an exciting new journey, they are suddenly faced with some new pressures — and without the familiar and structured environment of home and high school.

The obstacle? They may be feeling a little lost in a sea of new faces and places.

The good news? Campus and orientation leaders planning summer orientation can help relieve some of the pressure! By carving out time and creating opportunities for new students to be social and share more about themselves, they create a positive and welcoming atmosphere.

Why is this so important? Building campus community and cultivating a sense of belonging are critical for a student’s success and retention (especially for those at risk for dropping out).

In this article, we are exploring 16 of our favorite college orientation ideas, activities, and icebreakers to help incoming students get to know each other!

April 26, 2022

That's a Wrap! CampusGroups Rendez-Vous '22 Conference Was a Hit!

April 26, 2022/ Stephanie Chandra

On Friday, April 8th, the CG team was beyond thrilled to host our 2nd annual virtual conference with our wonderful campus partners!

We were delighted to gather together and connect with so many creative and innovative campus leaders at CampusGroups Rendez-Vous ‘22! It was such a pleasure to see and hear from the incredible members of the CG community! 💙

Over 400 attendees from 12 countries and 141 campuses around the globe joined us for an exciting day of discussions, inspiration, discovery and new connections!

11 presenters from 8 institutions shared creative ways they have been adapting and innovating to keep their students connected and engaged.

February 15, 2022

32 Ways to Reward and Incentivize College Students

February 15, 2022/ Stephanie Chandra

One big challenge that educators and student affairs administrators can sometimes face is motivating their students. This can apply both in and outside of the classroom and affects all levels of education, from kindergarten all the way through college.

To help support student success, persistence and retention through graduation, many college leaders are creating reward systems and programs.

Recognizing students’ accomplishemnts and efforts encourages academic achievement. These rewards and incentives also help create an environment in which achievement is valued!

January 11, 2022

Fun Winter Event Ideas for College Students (When It's Freezing Outside!)

January 11, 2022/ Stephanie Chandra

Like bears, many of us are prone to hibernation when it gets too cold outside. It’s just easier to hide away, snug in your dorm room watching Netflix on your laptop or scrolling TikTok videos from underneath a warm blanket. But too much isolation, we have learned in these unprecedented times, is not good for anyone.

In fact, campus life administrators who create campus events to keep students connected, active and involved may sometimes find this frosty time of year the most challenging.

If you are looking to help the students in your campus community to destress and engage in some fun activities this winter, we’ve got you covered!

December 28, 2021

Top 10 CampusGroups Events of 2021!

December 28, 2021/ Stephanie Chandra

In 2021, campus leaders saw the continued need for virtual and hybrid event programming for students to connect actively in their campus communities. Unlike in 2020, though, many on-campus activities resumed for students to safely gather in-person. 🙏

Overall, we have been truly inspired by what our campus partners have been up to in 2021! We’re honored to help support them as they create so many unique opportunities for students, staff and faculty to be together, share ideas, and learn from each other throughout the year. From networking to cultural exploration to creative expression, we’re highlighting 10 of our favorite events created by organizations in CampusGroups partner schools!

November 09, 2021

Supporting Student Veterans in Higher Education

November 09, 2021/ Stephanie Chandra

Many college educators and student affairs administrators are taking a critical look at how they serve and support different populations such as student veterans and servicemembers. Throughout the entire student lifecycle, implementing strategies that support academic success, career planning, health & wellness, financial and social needs, are easing veterans’ adjustment to college, and helping them to thrive.

Student veterans, in many ways, set foot on campus already way ahead of the game. Many will bring unique strengths and experiences, a wealth of knowledge and expertise, leadership skills, focus and self-discipline to teamwork and group projects. They are able to enrich classroom discussions and enhance campus diversity overall.

October 05, 2021

Lead On! Enriching Leadership Development Activities for College Students

October 05, 2021/ Stephanie Chandra

One of the most critical steps to preparing college students for a successful future is helping them develop their leadership skills. Through meaningful experiences integrated throughout curricular and co-curricular activities, students are empowered to build their leadership portfolio and distinguish themselves from the pack (or from a stack of applications).

Taking on a leadership role on campus is a fantastic opportunity to build real-world, resume-building skills. Fortunately, there is no shortage of opportunities to lead in a campus community, from participating in student government, getting involved in a club or sports team, volunteering, pursuing a passion project, serving as a student ambassador to incoming students and beyond.

September 07, 2021

Fall Fun in '21! Inspiring Ideas for Outdoor & Virtual Campus Events

September 07, 2021/ Stephanie Chandra

27 Inspiring Ideas for Outdoor & Virtual Events this Fall

For many, one of the most beloved times of the year is fall. A brand new school year full of possibilities, an emergence of vibrant colors, flavors, and crisp, cool air. What’s not to love?

This year may look different for many college students following COVID-19 guidelines, but there are still many ways to take advantage of this beautiful season!