Starting the fall 2024 semester with their 2nd “Coming To Rowan” event, Men Of Color Alliance (MOCA) showcased the importance of connections and networking through a plethora of clubs and organizations, believing that these can provide valuable resources for new and returning students.

“It puts students in leadership positions. For example, when I became president of Men of Color Alliance, it taught me public speaking, how to organize and delegate tasks, and, most importantly, it taught me how to be confident in myself,” said Jonathan Sutton, president of MOCA, sharing his perspective on the benefits of engaging with student organizations. 

With over 200 student organizations chartered through the Student Government Association (SGA), Rowan University makes it possible for all students to build connections and access resources on campus. However, making these connections and utilizing campus resources can be nerve-wracking for many students. In fact, most students hesitate to seek help, believing their needs won’t be fully met, or because they haven’t found people from similar cultural backgrounds they feel comfortable reaching out to.

Students may find that joining clubs, departments, organizations, fraternities, and sororities is a powerful way to build connections and access resources. These groups can offer not only a sense of community but also support tailored to students’ unique needs and interests.

Jamar Green, president of BIPOC Graduate Student Association, the first and only graduate organization for people of color at Rowan, explains how networking puts students beyond their limits. 

“It gets you out of your comfort zone and shakes you into the person that you’re going to be,” Green shared. 

A shared theme that came about from leaders of various organizations was how these connections birth leadership skills. Whether it’s taking charge of an event, coordinating efforts within a group, or mentoring others, students shared their experiences in clubs like  Rowan African Student Association (ASA), Women Of Color Alliance (WOCA), and United Latinos Association (ULA). These clubs not only helped them grow into leadership roles, but provided a sense of belonging while supporting students’ diverse cultural backgrounds and needs.

Emilia Navarro Hurtado, president of ULA, shared her thoughts on networking and making sure that minority groups have access to the same opportunities.

“We represent the heritage and rich culture of being Hispanic. Clubs like Men of Color Alliance and Women of Color Alliance are great, and many here focus on the Black or Asian communities. However, ULA is one of a kind. Not many people know about us, so whenever we have the chance to network at Rowan, we seize the opportunity,” said Hurtado.

These events emphasize the pressing need for accessible resources in all aspects of student life, from basic hygiene products to mental health support and financial literacy. The connections formed through these clubs and organizations empower students to thrive both academically and personally.

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