Exploring the Diverse Student Organizations at the University of Virginia

Exploring the vast array of clubs and organizations at the University of Virginia can be both an exhilarating and overwhelming experience for students. With over 800 contracted independent organizations known as “CIOs,” students can dive into a multitude of interests on campus.

UVA’s extensive range of groups includes 133 academic and pre-professional societies, 69 service-based organizations, 64 club sports teams, 63 cultural associations, 56 social and hobby clubs, 46 performing arts groups, 38 political organizations, 36 religious groups, and 55 other varied groups encompassing media, academic departments, and Greek Life.

While numerous CIOs aim to enhance student experiences, many focus on community service as well. One such organization is the Clean Plate Project, dedicated to alleviating hunger by providing nutritious, home-cooked meals to families at UVA Health Children’s.

“I love cooking and was really looking for a volunteering organization,” said Emma Hering, a second-year student in the College of Arts & Sciences. “We cook bulk meals for families in need, which is heartwarming because these families don’t have the time to cook meals for themselves. They have loved ones at the hospital, which is not a great experience for anyone.”

Other groups offer innovative takes on traditional pre-professional paths. The Business Ethics Society engages students in discussions on topics like AI safety, media ethics, wellness, and sustainability. Members analyze real-life scenarios involving companies and industries, debating trade-offs and deriving actionable insights.

“I joined this club my first year, and it’s been an amazing way to connect with other UVA students on ethics topics and have engaging and open conversations with them,” said Leyla Ustun, a fourth-year student at the McIntire School of Commerce. “I’ve always wanted to do social entrepreneurship. One day, I want to start my own business and hopefully lead with ethics.”

Though some organizations have long-standing histories at UVA, others are newcomers. Keen at UVA supports young adults and children with disabilities through physical activities, providing a safe and inclusive space.

“This cause is very important to me because of my personal relations to it, and seeing the impact on families and children is a positive experience,” said Samia Khan, a fourth-year College student and the founder and president of Keen. She recently navigated the CIO application process to introduce the national organization to UVA students.

Some organizations have selective membership processes, while others, such as Plushies for Patients, emphasize inclusivity and community. This club encourages students to explore fabric arts, creating plush toys for patients in need, welcoming members of all skill levels.

“Everything that we make is given back to the UVA hospital to patients in need,” explained Rafferty Lee, a third-year College student and the club’s founder and president. “We do a ground-up approach. If you want to learn crocheting, knitting or stitching, we’ll teach you until you are able to make a plushie.”

“I started learning to crochet last year, and honestly, I just wanted a club that is very beginner-friendly, where people can learn together,” added Safa Touri, a second-year student at the School of Engineering and Applied Science. “It’s also a way for me to give back to my community. I’m on the pre-med track, and I wanted to get involved in a unique way.”

Sports also feature prominently at UVA, with traditional sports like football and basketball being popular choices. However, the university also supports more niche sports such as dodgeball, fostering a diverse athletic community.