You see them every day in class, but you have no idea what their names are. Many people make life-long friends in college, but the commuter campus setting of Metro makes it hard to create meaningful relationships with these familiar faces.

“I know it’s hard, especially with the model of Metro and the community,” said Kassie Seddon, president of the Feminist Alliance. “I think there’s a disconnect for a lot of students for how they feel about their school.”

Seddon said being in a student organization has enhanced her college experience. She thinks it’s a great way to create a sense of community on campus and make friends with those who have similar interests.

“Most people keep to themselves,” UCD freshman Spencer Hale said. Hale said he liked the idea of having clubs on campus. “Its useful, I think it will help with community ties.”

Metro has numerous student organizations, as well as sororities and fraternities. A full list of active organizations can be found on the Student Activities website: www.mscd.edu/studentactivities/organizations.

If you can’t find an organization that suits your interests, you can create your own. The Student Activities website says students on a commuter campus are “less prone to the norms of the college experience” and starting a student organization helps them become involved. More information on creating a student organization can be found on the Student Activities website.

“Its cool; we had it in my high school it’s a good opportunity for people to do their own thing,” Metro freshman Page Bassett said of being able to create a new club.

So, while you’re registering for classes and ordering books over winter break, check out the various organizations’ websites and consider starting your semester as a member of a group.

“I would just encourage people to get involved because it really will enhance not only your [college] experience, but it’s also such a great place to network,” Seddon said.