Learning Opportunities

Student organizations are a way to meet other students, network and learn new things.

Student Organizations

Horticulture Association

The Horticulture Association of Michigan State University is a professional, social and educational organization for all students interested in Horticulture. Activities include visits from guest speakers, field trips, fundraisers, intercollegiate competitions and a Networking Night Career Fair. The biggest event is the annual Spring Show. Students grow and market plant material as a fundraiser and construct a large public display which attracts hundreds of visitors.

National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP) & National Collegiate Landscape Competition (NCLC)

Each year, selected members of the Student Horticulture Association represent MSU by participating in the National Collegiate Landscape Competition (NCLC). The team competes against other schools in a "Landscape Olympics" of 26 competitive events including plant ID, landscape design, sales, business management, cost estimating and equipment operation. Typically, aorund 1,000 students participate in NCLC, representing 66 colleges from across the country. MSU has placed in the top 10 every year since 2003.

Student Organic Farm

The Student Organic Farm is committed to outreach in the community, first through a Community Supported Agriculture Program, but also through educating people, young and old, about the practices and benefits of local organic agriculture. Located at the Horticulture Teaching and Research Center on campus, the SOF hosts tours and workshops and operates a seasonal on-campus farm stand.

Ecological Food and Farm Stewardship (EFFS) Club

The Ecological Food and Farm Stewardship (EFFS) Club is a multidisciplinary group of undergraduate and graduate students striving to cultivate sustainable, local food and community. Activities have included conferences, organized events on campus such as guest speakers and workshops, and the promotion and support of small farms and businesses that actively practice or teach about sustainable agriculture.