Badgers work hard and play hard — and Summer Term is no exception. As students buckle down with summer studies, they can also find unique opportunities to unwind, recharge and have fun by joining one or more of the 1,000+ student organizations on the UW–Madison campus.
“Student organizations provide the opportunity to make friends, contribute to the life and vibrancy of campus, and delve into topics, issues and hobbies that are personally relevant,” says Heidi Lang, principal student engagement officer of the Wisconsin Union, which includes student leadership groups such as the Wisconsin Union Directorate and the Center for Leadership & Involvement. “Students involved in student organizations learn so much: leadership skills, problem-solving skills, time management and decision-making, to name a few.”
And while many student organizations are more active and visible during the fall and spring semesters, Lang notes that most are busy, in one way or another, during Summer Term, too.
“Recruitment, event planning and training can occur over the summer for most student organizations — and a number of organizations are extremely active throughout the summer.”
Below we highlight just a few of these active summer student orgs. Want to explore more options? Visit the Wisconsin Involvement Network (WIN) for information, events and news about all of UW–Madison’s student organizations.
Wisconsin Union Directorate (WUD)
As the student programming and leadership board for the Wisconsin Union, WUD members plan, organize and promote hundreds of recreational, art, community service and cultural events on campus through the directorate’s 11 committees and six Wisconsin Hoofers clubs. From developing and supporting an entire summer series of music and film on the Memorial Union Terrace to organizing sailing, outing trips and horseback riding lessons, the student leaders of WUD do it all. Interested students should reach out to learn more, Lang says. “Community, adventure, exploration and connection await!”
Choi Tae Kwon Do Club
If physical fitness is your jam, check out the Choi Tae Kwon Do Club, which welcomes students of all levels as well as those with no previous experience. The club provides traditional martial arts training and is dedicated to promoting individual growth through a noncompetitive environment. Classes begin with a 30–45 minute warmup; the remainder of each session is dedicated to a range of tae kwon do techniques, followed by a brief meditation. Students interested in joining can attend one of the scheduled classes, which meet in person and on Zoom on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings.
Kesem, UW–Madison Chapter
Summer is a big season for the student members of Kesem, a free and supportive summer camp experience for children ages 6–18 who have been impacted by a parent’s cancer. Kesem hosts three week-long overnight camps throughout the summer and reunions during the year to give participating kids the opportunity to relax, have fun and just be kids. UW students serve as counselors at the camp, which meets in Fredonia, Wisconsin, and also host fundraising and social events throughout the fall and spring to support the camp’s activities and mission. It’s a great option for Badgers interested in pairing their student involvement with service.
Badgerloop
Start your solar vehicles! Badgerloop offers UW–Madison students hands-on experience and learning opportunities with electric vehicles and solar technology. After a successful run as a hyperloop team, the organization pivoted in 2021 to complete a minimum viable product solar car to compete in the 2022 Formula Sun Grand Prix (FSGP). Since then, Badgerloop members have been applying new knowledge to their designs and started validation and manufacturing. They are currently preparing to participate in the 2023 FSGP, which takes place this week in Topeka, Kansas! Interested in joining the team? Fill out the contact form on the Badgerloop website to get started.
Wisconsin Singers
Have a passion for music? Plan ahead for Summer Term 2024 by checking out the Wisconsin Singers now. This student organization is nationally renowned for its special blend of pop music, brilliant choreography and big band sound. Touring as UW’s Official Ambassadors of Goodwill since 1967, Singers provides students of any major a chance to take the stage as performers or band members in a Broadway-caliber production — or participate behind the scenes in theater tech, entertainment management, PR and more! Auditions are held in spring for the following academic year, with summer rehearsals to prepare for a season of performances around the state in fall and spring.
Great things happen when Badgers put their minds, hearts and interests together. Don’t let this summer pass you by without getting involved in a student organization or activity!
Learn more about UW–Madison Summer Term and designing the summer that’s right for you. Share your #MyBadgerSummer Summer Term experience on Instagram for the chance to win a Badger prize.