Many of Utica University’s student organizations struggle attracting students to campus events, spotlighting a decline in student engagement and causing some frustration among executive board members. 

Years ago, Utica University had a thriving student life with events and activities that kept students engaged and excited, especially during stressful times like finals week. However, student engagement has decreased over time, with some students describing it as “low and dead.” 

“There’s not enough student interaction or social life on this campus,” said Monic Kumih, a senior and secretary of the growing organization Women in a New Direction (WiND). “If students are not talking about the events, then other students won’t attend.” 

Many students cite academic demands as the main reason they don’t attend events. While event organizers encourage students to prioritize their studies, some argue that despite heavy workloads, students should at least have some time to take a break and engage in campus activities. 

“Some students say it’s because of schedule conflicts,” said Kumih, adding that she believes location is also important. “Students only attend events if it’s in Strebel or on the lawn. Nobody is going all the way to Thurston to watch a movie.” 

Utica University is aware of the decline in student engagement and is making efforts to improve student life. However, the university faces significant challenges, including competing with digital distractions and students’ constantly evolving interests. 

“I think what students react and respond to changes quickly,” said Richard Racioppa, Dean of Students at Utica University. “Semester to semester, year to year, what was popular and huge a couple of years ago, maybe nonexistent now.” 

To keep up with these changes, the university works to maintain student interest through various channels, including a digital presence on social media. Clubs, organizations and student resources aim to meet students where they are and keep them informed about campus events and updates. 

Although these efforts are a step in the right direction, engagement continues to fall behind, even with initiatives that begin as early as orientation. The first six weeks at Utica are critical for building a sense of belonging and improving retention, yet many students still struggle to feel connected. 

“Students are reluctant to get involved and start things on their own,” Racioppa said. During the early weeks, students often focus on blending in seamlessly, which can make them hesitant to participate. “The last thing students want to do is draw attention to themselves.”

Finances also play a significant role in the university’s student engagement issue. Many students have expectations that the school cannot meet financially when it comes to events. Event organizers have noticed that students engage more with high-energy attractions like bouncy castles, bull rides, and other fair-like rides and games. 

“Having money would make a huge difference,” said Michelle Holland, a senior and active Student Living and Campus Engagement (SLCE) employee focusing on campus events and attendance. “They want something that we can’t provide, but they also don’t want to meet us where we are.” 

To increase engagement, some event organizers constantly remind students about events, sometimes to the point of annoyance, hoping word of mouth will spark interest. This method has worked in the past, but has not been enough to maintain strong event turnout, according to student leaders.

“I find it hard to get students to come out of their shell because they’re so used to being in their own little bubble,” said Holland, adding that the biggest struggle in attracting students to events is their willingness to explore. “Sometimes the students don’t want to participate in new things.” 

Organizations have turned to social media and campus communication for help, creating eye-catching flyers and sending out email reminders and text messages to encourage student attendance and make the most of their college experience. However, these attempts are usually proven unsuccessful. 

“I read my emails a lot and see events I would go to, but by the time they come around, I don’t have time,” said Keisha Davis, a sophomore at Utica University. She added that she often avoids campus events due to repeated disappointment. “There are no vibes, no people, no good music, it’s just depressing.” 

When it comes to the support provided by administration and campus resources, students say it’s not enough. While their efforts are noticed, they simply aren’t sufficient to keep students engaged or revive student life at the university. 

“They attempt to make the effort, but it’s not meeting student expectations,” said Davis. 

Despite the obstacles, the university remains hopeful. Their goal is to foster personal growth and increase active participation in clubs and organizations throughout the campus. 

“We provide options for students to engage in, along with events that we hope pull them out, and it’s tough to try and do all of it,” Racioppa said.