Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison doesn’t end when class is out of session. Here at UW-Madison, undergraduate students can explore their interests in science, technology, engineering and the environment through registered student organizations that offer everything from professional development days and volunteering to field trips and hands-on projects.
For new students, these organizations can also provide a community of peers navigating similar coursework, interests and career goals.
Life sciences and health
For Badgers interested in biology, medicine, public health and other health-related fields, student organizations can provide opportunities to explore potential careers while connecting with peers on similar trajectories.
Sam Qastin, a junior at UW-Madison majoring in biology with a certificate in global health on the pre-dental track, serves as president of Mu Epsilon Delta (MED), a pre-health organization.
“Through MED, I’ve had access to incredible opportunities across Madison, including volunteering at Ronald McDonald House Charities, hosting blood drives, touring hospitals and learning directly from practicing healthcare professionals and alumni,” Qastin told The Daily Cardinal.
Qastin said MED’s combination of leadership opportunities and community has helped prepare him for a career in health care.
“The greatest benefit has been the mix of hands-on leadership and a community of like-minded peers. By encouraging every member to step into leadership roles, MED builds lasting communication skills and confidence, which has strongly solidified my own preparation for dental school,” Qastin said.
Students interested in other health and life science careers can find organizations tailored to specific fields. The Bucky Pre-Health Volunteering Association combines pre-health interests with community service, while the Pre-Genetic Counseling Organization introduces students to the field of genetic counseling with workshops and meetings. The Pre-Veterinary Association offers a similar community for students pursuing careers in veterinary medicine.
STEM Greek Life and professional development
Moira Ahern, a junior majoring in biology, told the Cardinal she joined Alpha Chi Sigma, a professional chemistry fraternity, during her freshman year.
“The frat also introduced me to many new people who I now consider my closest friends. One of my favorite parts has been being able to build a community of people who share the same STEM related interests, are taking the same classes, and are pursuing similar careers,” Ahern said.
The community has also provided academic support as students navigate difficult STEM coursework.
“I’ve known people in or who have taken the majority of my more difficult classes, which has been a great support system while studying for and choosing my classes,” Ahern said.
Kappa Eta Kappa offers a professional and social community for students in electrical engineering, computer engineering and computer science. Triangle Fraternity similarly offers a social and professional community for engineers, architects and scientists, with an emphasis on academics and career preparation.
Climate, environment and wildlife
Environment and wildlife organizations give students chances to engage with issues ranging from conservation and climate change to local ecosystems and biodiversity.
For Haily Hintz, a senior majoring in zoology with certificates in environmental studies and classics, three years in the Undergraduate Zoological Society (UZS) have provided opportunities to explore her interests and connect with like-minded peers.
“I have participated in a variety of activities including volunteering, group trips, social nights, grad student panels and faculty presentations,” Hintz said.
Last spring, UZS visited the Shedd Aquarium as a group, following a trip to the Brookfield Zoo the year before, Hintz said.
The Audubon Society offers another option for students interested in wildlife and conservation, with activities such as bird hikes and helping monitor tree swallow nest boxes. The organization aims to connect UW-Madison students and community members through dialogue, observation and study of birds and bird conservation.
Students interested in atmospheric and oceanic sciences can join the American Meteorological Society Student Chapter, which connects students with working professionals through educational and recreational opportunities.
Other environment and climate clubs offer opportunities to engage with environmental issues through conservation, sustainability, advocacy and professional development.
Engineering
More than 60 engineering-related clubs offer students ways to apply classroom concepts in hands-on projects, competitions, professional development and service. Options range from discipline-based to service, competition and identity-based organizations.
One hands-on option is the Wisconsin Space Program (WiSP), a student team working to be the first student team to fly a liquid rocket to the edge of space. WiSP members design, analyze, manufacture, test and launch high powered rocketry systems. Students can also compete in large intercollegiate rocketry competitions.
Identity-based clubs, such as the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers or Women in Electrical & Computer Engineering, focus on professional development, leadership and opportunities for students in typically underrepresented identity groups in the field.
The Wisconsin Engineering Student Council maintains directories of these organizations for students looking to explore additional options.
Getting involved
Students do not need previous experience to get involved with many of these registered student organizations. For those still figuring out their interests, following organizations on social media, attending a meeting or visiting the Student Organization Fair can be a low-commitment way to explore options.
The fair will take place Wednesday, Sept. 9 and Thursday, Sept. 10 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Kohl Center.
