Hi everyone! My name is Ryan and I’m a 2nd year student studying Economics and Public Affairs! I am from Roseville, California, near the Greater Sacramento area. Today, I am excited to share some insights into the amazing student clubs and organizations of UCLA!

Did you know that UCLA has over 1300+ student organizations and clubs? Across campus, there is a vibrant community of student-led groups– from cultural organizations to professional development– no matter your interests, there is a place for all Bruins to get involved and explore their passions.

Like many others, I came into UCLA with an uncertainty about finding my place in a university with thousands of students. However, throughout my time at UCLA, I have been able to find my “home away from home” through UCLA’s vibrant community of student organizations and clubs on-campus!

One of the student groups I am a part of is the Jade Lotus Lion Dance team at UCLA! Lion Dance is a traditional Asian performance dance, typically seen during Lunar New Year. My team specializes in Vietnamese-Chinese style lion dance and performs across UCLA and Los Angeles year-round. As a part of Jade Lotus, I have been able to find community through performance. From our nightly practices where we perfect our craft, learn new dance styles, and prepare to perform for hundreds of community members each year, I have been able to learn from, grow, and make unforgettable memories alongside my teammates. A highlight of my time with the team has been performing at this year’s annual Vietnamese Culture Night at UCLA, a fully student-run production celebrating the beauty of Vietnamese culture through showcases of student performers such as lion dance.

Also, a fun fact: our team was just chartered this year! Whether you are interested in an existing club, or want to start your own, UCLA has so many opportunities to get involved with student organizations! If you are passionate and want to get involved in student groups, you can bring your interests to life at UCLA.

Another student group that I am a part of is the Luskin Undergraduate Student Association (LUSA), where I will be serving as President during the 2025-2026 school year! LUSA is the student organization that represents the 500+ Public Affairs undergraduate students within the Luskin School of Public Affairs. I originally joined LUSA because I wanted to connect with other students in my major. But through LUSA’s events, such as career panels with professionals in public policy and government, workshops about applying to the major, and game night socials, I have been able to build connections with the Public Affairs community at UCLA, including professors, graduate students, and fellow undergraduates. Beyond helping me explore my passions in public service, LUSA has been such a support network and family to me!

There are so many professional clubs on campus such as LUSA that provide unparalleled opportunities for student connection and professional development. UCLA is the perfect place to take full advantage of pre-professional opportunities to fully explore your potential career or any future interests you may have.

Lastly, I am also involved with the Bruin Ambassador Program with UCLA Undergraduate Admission! In my role as a Bruin Ambassador, I work with a team of fellow undergraduate students to share the student experience and information about higher education with prospective Bruins. I love working alongside my peers who are just as passionate about higher education as I am, getting to visit local high schools, college fairs, and events like Bruin Day!

Whether your passions lie in performing and dance, professional development and higher education (like mine), or completely different interests, UCLA has a community for you!

But how do students find clubs or get involved in the first place? Well, every year before classes officially start, students can attend the annual Enormous Activities Fair! This is a huge event where all types of clubs and student organizations will be tabling. Grab a flyer or talk to representatives of the group you are interested in. The Enormous Activities Fair is an amazing opportunity for students to join an organization on campus and truly showcases the diversity of our student body and our various interests.

Being a part of student groups has undoubtedly impacted my college experience. It has allowed me to meet my best friends and make long-lasting connections. With a shared community, clubs and organizations are an amazing way to get involved. Regardless of your interests– cultural, social, recreational, academic, professional, or other– there is a place for you in UCLA’s diverse and vibrant community of student organizations.

Prospective Bruins, I highly encourage you to take advantage of all the unique opportunities that UCLA has, including our vibrant student community! Step out of your comfort zone, join a club you are interested in, step into leadership roles, and explore your interests! You won’t regret it!