Extracurricular Activities

Since learning continues beyond the classroom, Columbia University encourages students to become involved in extracurricular programs and activities that enhance their educational experience and personal growth. A wide range of student organizations address both personal and professional interests in the arts, politics, identity, culture, sports and recreation, and religion, all of which provide opportunities to enrich student life, the Columbia community, and Columbia's New York neighbors.

Student Organizations

More than 500 student organizations are open to Joint Bachelor’s Degree Program students. Students are encouraged to attend the annual Activities Day event held at the beginning of each fall semester on Low Plaza, which provides an opportunity to find out more about campus organizations and meet with representatives.

Student activities at Columbia are primarily created and managed by students. In addition, the GS Office of the Dean of Students hosts a number of events and programs each semester to foster campus involvement and community. Student events are hosted both on and off campus and Lerner Hall, the Columbia University Student Center, is the venue for many student activities. Any student interested in forming a new organization is encouraged to contact the Office of the Dean of Students.

The Peter J. Awn Lounge, on the 3rd floor of Lewisohn Hall, serves as a gathering place for student events. The Lounge, which contains six computer terminals and printers, also provides GS students with a space to study and socialize.

Student Government

Every spring the undergraduate population of GS elects members to represent them in the General Studies Student Council (GSSC). The GSSC pursues academic, political, social and administrative initiatives, and serves as a liaison between the student body and the GS administration as well as other University offices and student organizations.

Mentorship and Peer Advising

In addition to the comprehensive advising offered by their GS academic advisors through all four years of the program, Joint Degree students in years three and four also have access to the GS Peer Advisors. Peer Advisors are undergraduate students who wish to provide support and advice for other GS undergrads about the opportunities and challenges at Columbia. Peer Advisors are available to discuss academics, campus resources, personal concerns, and the transition to the School of General Studies.

Peer Advisors are available to meet with students by appointment, and they also hold weekly walk-in hours in the GS Lounge. 

Students also have access to the GS Mentor Program, which pairs specially-trained continuing undergraduate and Postbac Premed students with incoming students on the basis of several criteria including majors or premedical tracks, interests, and backgrounds. Mentors meet with their mentees at regular intervals throughout their first semester.

Joint Bachelor’s Degree Program students may apply to become Peer Advisors or Mentors in advance of their fourth year.

Greek Life

Greek life has been part of Columbia for more than 160 years. Today, more than 20 single-sex and coed Greek chapters can be found on campus, most of which are affiliated with national organizations. Sororities and fraternities at Columbia are open to every full-time undergraduate in any division of the University. Students have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with various chapters on campus during each organization's recruiting program.

Athletics and Fitness

Dodge Physical Fitness Center serves the recreational, instructional, and competitive interests and needs of the Columbia community. It includes a tri-level cardiovascular and strength training center with state-of-the-art exercise equipment; a 0.1 mile indoor track; two gymnasiums suitable for basketball, volleyball, badminton, indoor soccer, and floor hockey; an 8-lane, 25-yard pool and diving area; squash and handball courts; two tennis courts; and locker and sauna facilities. A staff of qualified personal trainers can help students design and implement an individualized exercise program.

Physical Education courses are offered every semester and students may elect to take up to two points of physical education for academic credit.

Joint Bachelor’s Degree Program students may be eligible for intercollegiate sports teams, as well as club sports, including rugby, lacrosse, water polo, and sailing, among many others.