Student Engagement and Leadership

The collaborative of Student Engagement and Leadership (SEL) at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst provides frameworks for experiential learning by offering opportunities for leadership, development, and engagement. Through SEL’s guidance, students create intentional, inclusive programming, build community, and facilitate supportive services.

two student working in the kitchen at a Earth Foods Cafe, a student run business, at UMass Amherst.

Center for Student Businesses

The Center for Student Businesses (CSB) provides training, support, and advocacy to student-run cooperative businesses at UMass Amherst. Student Businesses include:

  • Bike Coop
  • Campus Design & Copy
  • People's Market
  • Earth Foods Cafe
  • Greeno Sub Shop
  • Sweets and More
  • Sylvan Snack Bar
UMass volunteers painting a fence as part of a community service project

Leadership, Activism and Community Service

Leadership development and community service are central to the university’s social mission and are integral to student development. Serve the community and develop leadership skills through campus groups, local organizations, and Five Colleges and community opportunities. Integrate academic and community service goals with Office of Civic Engagement and Service Learning (CESL) programs. Explore resources for students who want to help others.

A picture of students from the Registered Student Organization Active Minds marching with a sign that says "Team UMass Active Minds".

Registered Student Organizations

UMass Amherst has over 600 established student organizations for undergraduate and graduate students. 

These Hands Don't Haze!

Sorority and Fraternity Life

Joining a fraternity or sorority can enhance your college experience by fostering friendships, community involvement, and personal growth. Fraternities and sororities at UMass and nationwide are rooted in ideals of friendship, service, and scholarship, building lasting bonds based on shared values and respect.

UMass SGA seal

Student Governance

Under Trustee Document T73-098 (also known as known as The Wellman Document), UMass Amherst students are granted “primary responsibility for services and activities which are designed primarily to serve students or those which are financed primarily by students, managing student political affairs and organizational matters, and setting standards for student behavior, conduct, and discipline.” This responsibility is defined as “the capacity to initiate recommendations, after appropriate consultation.”

SORC Logo

Student Agencies

The Student Government Association funds twelve (12) student-led Agencies, each of which provides a specific service to the student body. The services these Agencies provide, which include advocacy, wellness, community engagement, media arts, legal consultation, and professional development, are integral to enhancing the student experience at UMass Amherst.

StudentUnionMainStreetLounge

Student Union

The Student Union (the "Living Room" of Campus) at UMass Amherst is the vibrant heart of campus life, offering a dynamic space for students to connect, collaborate, and thrive. As a central hub for activities and resources, our Student Union provides a welcoming environment where you can study, relax, and engage with a diverse community. From a variety of clubs and organizations to state-of-the-art facilities and exciting events, the Student Union is your go-to destination for making the most of your university experience. Come explore all that we have to offer and become a part of our vibrant campus community!