Student Involvement and Community
At UW–Madison, the opportunities to connect, engage, and grow are endless! This section showcases various support services and opportunities to make the college experience meaningful and unforgettable.
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Get Involved
There are numerous ways for students to connect, make friends, and build a sense of community on campus. Here are some great options to start college on the right foot.
Wisconsin Welcome
Wisconsin Welcome is a multi-week celebration at the start of each semester with hundreds of events to help students:
- Explore Madison
- Meet new friends
- Find activities that match their interests
Event details are in the Wisconsin Welcome app. Encourage your student to join—it’s the perfect way to start their college experience!
Student Organizations
With 1,000+ student organizations at UW–Madison, students can:
- Explore interests and build leadership skills
- Search for groups on the Wisconsin Involvement Network (WIN)
- Attend the Student Organization Fair each semester to meet 400+ groups
Volunteering
The Morgridge Center for Public Service helps students:
- Volunteer in the community
- Join programs like Badger Volunteers and Wisconsin Idea Fellowships
- Meet with peer advisors to find opportunities
Volunteering is a great way to build connections and give back to the community.
Community Building and Support
Belonging to a community is a vital component of overall wellness. There are many options on campus for students to connect with groups that align with their identities, interests, and experiences.
Associated Students of Madison (ASM)
UW–Madison’s student government represents 50,000+ students. ASM elected student leaders:
- Help decide how student fees are used ($50 million annually)
- Manage the Student Activity Center and bus pass program
- Advocate for student-focused issues
Center for Interfaith Dialogue (CID)
The CID helps students feel supported in their religious or spiritual beliefs. It also welcomes those who don’t identify with a particular religion or are exploring their beliefs.
It offers programs, resources, and events that encourage respectful conversations and learning across different faiths and worldviews. The goal is to help students feel included and prepared to live in a diverse world.
First Generation Badgers
The First Generation Badgers program supports students who are the first in their families to attend college. The program offers:
- Events and programs to connect with peers
- Campus services tailored to first-generation needs
Fraternity and Sorority Life
UW–Madison has nearly 70 fraternities and sororities with more than 6,000 members (approximately 15% of undergraduates). Fraternities and sororities offer opportunities to:
- Build friendships
- Develop leadership skills
- Engage in service
- Receive academic support
Gender and Sexuality Campus Center (GSCC)
The GSCC provides:
- Support for LGBTQ+ students and their communities
- A welcoming space with drop-in support
- Access to 20+ student organizations through Qouncil
- Social events, leadership programs, and workshops
International Student Services (ISS)
The ISS is here to help international students adjust to life in the USA and at UW–Madison. They provide:
- Visa and immigration advising
- Orientation and cultural programs
- Workshops and events for academic and social success
Multicultural Student Center (MSC)
The MSC provides students with a “home away from home.” It offers:
- Cultural programs and heritage month events
- Spaces for community and belonging
- Leadership and learning opportunities
Transfer Transition Program (TTP)
The TTP supports transfer students, especially during their first year at UW–Madison through:
- Events and peer connections
- The Transfer Engagement Center for socialization, studying, snacks, and printing
University Veteran Services (UVS)
UVS supports veterans, service members, and their families with:
- Education benefits
- Military leave assistance
- Social events and networking opportunities
- Support for the Student Veterans of America (SVA) organization