There are many ways in which you can get involved at Innis: from groups such as the Innis College Student Society (ICSS), the Innis College Council (ICC), and the Innis Residence Council (IRC), to clubs like the Innis Choir and the Innis Herald, to various intramural sports teams. Getting involved can be intimidating, especially if you don’t know what to expect – that’s why I interviewed some upper year students on their experience with getting involved at Innis and asked them for advice on how to do so.

Third-year Lucas Granger, who has been involved with the IRC as a Senior House Representative, the ICC as a student representative, and the University of Toronto Students’ Union (UTSU) as the Innis College Director.

Fifth-year Victoria Hue has helped run the Innis College Choir, both as the Assistant Director and as Director. Last year, she was the Vice-President of the IRC. She has also been involved with intramurals, playing on the Innis Women’s Intramurals Basketball Team.

Andrew Zhao is a third year and is currently the Vice President of the IRC. He has also been a Junior House Representative and the Treasurer for the IRC. He was also on the ICSS last year as one of the Equity and Outreach Directors.

In what ways is getting involved within the college beneficial, specifically in leadership roles?

Lucas: Getting involved at Innis is super easy and very rewarding. At Innis, we have a lot of involvement positions. Having these leadership roles allows you to advocate and organize for things you care about, whether that is mental health and wellness, or advocating on behalf of commuters – it puts your voice out there where people can listen. Being involved also helps foster a sense of community within Innis and builds great friendships inside and outside of the college.

Victoria: I believe that learning about how you lead is such an important thing that everyone needs to explore for themselves, and Innis College is a great place to get started. Innis has its own unique culture where there’s so much interest and enthusiasm around student initiatives. As you get involved in clubs at Innis, you’re going to meet amazing friends to share your interests and growing experiences with, and the things you learn about your own unique leadership style are going to stay with you in all types of situations.

Andrew: I think student government has an important role to play in advocating for students. The university is a big bureaucracy, and often student interests can get lost. Student government’s job is to remind the university of who they work for. If nothing else, getting involved is still a great way to meet people and make lasting friendships.

Do you have any advice to those who are shy, introverted, or nervous about getting involved?

Lucas: Try anyways! Across all student leadership you will find those who say that they waited too long or that they thought they weren’t outgoing enough to be involved. Being involved doesn’t mean that you have to be a completely public face or rise up the ladders of student government – it means that you can work on portfolios that you care about. If you are worried that it might be too much commitment – feel free to ask questions, our goal isn’t to discourage people from trying, but instead to support those who want to.

Victoria: I am also someone who was shy and nervous about getting involved. I think it’s normal to be a little afraid of putting yourself in a new environment. I would highly suggest starting by joining a group that does something you know you enjoy. At Innis there are many clubs supporting different interests: arts, music, sports, environmental causes, health, fitness, mentorship, gaming, just to name a few – so there’s really something for everyone. Even if there isn’t, start a new initiative, Innis is very open about supporting this! Try, and chances are, you’ll surprise yourself.

Andrew: The easiest way to get involved is to reach out to someone who already is involved. It doesn’t matter if they’re a complete stranger! Especially at Innis, student leaders want to bring as many people as possible into the fold. Shoot us a message (or an email, if you’re feeling bold!). We want to get you involved, just ask us how!

There are many benefits to getting involved, especially at Innis, where there are so many great opportunities to do so! If you’re nervous about joining in on activities, remember that if you need it, there are many people here at Innis who would love to help you become more comfortable getting involved!