Learning the skills to succeed in a career is only part of why so many young people choose a college education. Indeed, college provides the ideal environment for making lasting connections and breaking out of your comfort zone to try new things. Whether you’re looking for ways to stay active, want to join an academic team, or just need to have some fun after a hard day of classes, we’ve highlighted some resources for getting involved during school.
1. Focusing on fitness. Staying physically fit is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle, not to mention an excellent way to burn off stress. But how you go about it is up to you! The Salt Lake area is literally teeming with opportunities to build stamina, strength and friendships. There are dozens of gyms, recreation centers and niche fitness centers near the Ensign College campus, if you’re looking for a consistent way to get your exercise. Yoga, martial arts, Crossfit, swimming, aerobics, dancing or climbing… whatever your interest, you’ll find a studio or club nearby.
2. Getting outside. If you’re looking for a cheap way to get your heart rate up, Utah’s nearby mountains, waterways and canyons offer endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. Hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, skiing, and trail running are just a few of your recreation options in Salt Lake’s scenic outdoors. Exploring nature also offers an excellent way to build connections and a sense of community, especially if you’re new to Utah. If you’re looking to join a like-minded group, sites like Meetup and Utahoutdoors offer forums to connect people interested in getting out in nature.
3. Playing sports. If you’d rather participate in team sports, the Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation page hosts a plethora of activities through rec centers across the county. Depending on your goals, you can choose from seasonal sports programs at instructional, recreational, and competitive levels.
Some options include:
- Martial Arts
- Coed Softball
- Ultimate Frisbee
- Tennis
- Soccer
- Golf
- Hockey
- Rock Climbing
- Archery
- Boxing
- Basketball
They also offer a variety of camps, classes and clinics throughout the year, including: art, horseback riding, dance, gymnastics, theater, and more.
4. Involvement at Ensign College. Another great way to get involved is by participating in one of a variety of competitive teams, clubs, and volunteer opportunities offered to students at Ensign College. Whether you’re interested in challenging your tech skills, honing problem solving and leadership techniques, or are simply seeking that sense of community that comes from achieving hard things together, there are opportunities for everyone, including:
- DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America), which teaches students presentation, leadership and marketing skills. Students can then put their skills to the test in business competitions throughout the state.
- PBL (Project-Based Learning), a dynamic classroom approach in which students actively explore real-world problems and challenges while acquiring a deeper knowledge. Regional competitions give students a chance to showcase their skills against students from colleges across the state.
- NIATEC Invitational Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition, offering cybersecurity students the chance to strengthen their security skills as they mentor high school participants.
Regardless of your interest, there are countless ways to build connections, discover new things, strengthen your body and mind, and have fun while in school. To learn more about how to get involved at Ensign College, contact: involvement@ensign.edu, or call 801-524-1934.
Updated October 11, 2022.