College - Author 1
College of Liberal Arts
Department - Author 1
Communication Studies Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BA in Communication Studies
Date
6-2026
Primary Advisor
Bethany Conway, College of Liberal Arts, Communication Studies Department
Abstract/Summary
This study examined the relationship between student organization involvement, sense of belonging, and perceptions of administration at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly). Using survey data collected from 176 students, independent samples t-tests and correlation analyses were conducted in SPSS Version 25 to examine whether involvement in student organizations was associated with perceptions of administration and institutional belonging. Results indicated no significant relationship between levels of involvement and perceptions of administration or organizational change communication. However, students involved in student organizations reported significantly greater feelings of mattering and belonging compared to non-involved students. Additionally, students with stronger feelings of belonging reported more positive perceptions of administration. Findings suggest that while organizational involvement alone may not directly influence students’ perceptions of administration, involvement may indirectly contribute to more positive institutional perceptions by fostering a stronger sense of belonging. These findings highlight the importance of promoting meaningful student engagement and fostering belonging within higher education environments.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/comssp/282