In my senior year of high school, I was completely unsure about my next step. I knew I wanted to go to college, but had no idea where or what I wanted to study. I applied to and toured a variety of colleges with different social scenes, sizes, and locations. When my senior spring rolled around, I still had no idea where I wanted to go. Finishing high school, deciding where to spend the next four years of your life, and touring campuses all at once can be incredibly overwhelming. If you are a high school senior considering the University of Rhode Island, continue reading to hear my insights on what you can expect. 

I attended a Welcome Day at URI for accepted students in late April. Immediately, I was greeted by enthusiastic students in the Ryan Center. There were many organizations, ranging from club sports, study abroad programs, art groups, outing hiking, environmental clubs, wellness and mental health groups, Greek life, and so much more. I quickly saw that the University of Rhode Island embodies so many groups; there is truly something for everyone on campus. At each booth, there were students passionate about their club or program. The student involvement and overall atmosphere were incredible. This would be a place where I would not only grow academically, but also find a community that feels like home. 

Student Life with Campus Rec

While I have had the opportunity to become a part of multiple groups on campus, Campus Recreation has played the largest role in my college experience. Having played sports in high school, I was hoping to continue to be part of a team and compete competitively, but not at the varsity level. Campus Rec’s Club Sport Program provided me with just that. I tried out for the Club Field Hockey team my first semester and joined the Club Swim Team the following semester and have been a member of both teams ever since. It is because of these teams that I found my closest friends. The club sport program has also given me leadership skills, travel opportunities, and the ability to continue playing sports competitively while balancing work and school. If you are interested in exploring all the club sports we offer, click here. 

Campus Rec has fulfilled me in so many ways beyond sports. My sophomore year I became an intramural basketball referee. I enjoyed having an on campus job so when the season ended, I sought out another position under Campus Rec. After seeing an opening for Blog and Copywriter on Handshake, I applied and got the job. Both of these positions have allowed me to grow in my time management skills, along with professional skills in a student-focused environment, all while balancing academics, sports, and a social life. Not only has it allowed me growth in the workplace, but I have also made many friends, found connections, and a sense of community within these positions. With over 300 student employees, and jobs in a variety of program areas- Intramural Sports, Club Sports, Aquatics, Facilities. Marketing, Fitness and Wellness- there are many opportunities for employment under Campus Rec.

Beyond job opportunities, Campus Rec proved instrumental in fostering my well-being and helping me achieve personal goals. With two workout facilities, these places have become a great outlet to relieve stress and carve out time for myself. Our bike path has also been a staple for me, especially my freshman year. When I lived on campus without a car, it was nice to get away and take a walk or run just to have some alone time. I also started taking group exercise classes through our programs, finding that I enjoy working out in a group environment with a student taught workout class. Campus Rec allows students to expand on what they enjoy and also try new things. 

There is so much more to Campus Rec. With Group Exercise classes like zumba, yoga, cycle, BodyPump, pilates, along with intramural sports, aquatic activities, wellness events, and more, there is definitely no shortage of on campus activities to partake in. Free and accessible to all students, Campus Rec ensures that students are provided many outlets to better emotional, physical, and mental wellness. 

Academic Life

While searching for colleges, I did not know what I was meant to be looking for or researching in each university. Unsure of what I wanted to major in, the options seemed overwhelming. I stayed Undeclared my entire freshman year, which was actually a great way to explore many course options and feel out which classes I was interested in. I am now a double major in Political Science and Criminal Justice and Criminology, and have found that URI has provided me with ample academic resources to succeed. 

With the Academic Enhancement Center, the Writing Center, mentor programs, and office hours held by professors, there are a variety of resources available for students. All of which are free of charge! I have found that in the past four years, all of my professors have been extremely helpful and accommodating. Attending office hours has allowed me to get to know many of my professors and connect with peers in my classes. 

Over the past four years, I can confidently say that I have found my place here at URI. Although the transition from high school to college was not always easy, this university has offered me countless opportunities for personal and academic growth, resources to support my emotional well being, and meaningful friendships. URI truly has a place for everyone and it is a strong, diverse community with many routes for students to explore. 

With upcoming Welcome Days on March 28th, April 11th, and April 29th, Campus Rec will be in attendance with our own booth and are happy to answer any questions prospective students have. Be sure to come explore our campus and the many opportunities that are here for you!

By Erin Mullaney

Major: Political Science and Criminal Justice

Graduating May 2026