We have all heard the line before: Getting involved outside of the classroom is an important part of a quality education. Sports, clubs and the multitude of extracurricular activities offered here at DU make this involvement fun, engaging and a great way to meet fellow students. But what about the world beyond the DU campus?

Getting involved in political campaigns and the local community are also critically important aspects of a well-rounded education.

There is only so much one can learn in a classroom or from a textbook.

Theory is a cornerstone of education, but it must be balanced with applications in a non-academic setting. Research shows that civic engagement and volunteering in communities results in young people who are more likely to vote, stay actively involved in service and feel more empowered as citizens.

This increased sense of self-empowerment young people feel as they see how they can have an impact on social challenges, needs and problems is the foundation of good citizenship as they grow out of their college years into adults.

Community engagement is also a great way to meet like-minded people and build connections.  Even though volunteering is by definition unpaid, doing a great job and demonstrating dedication to an organization can lead toward a paid internship down the road or at the very least a networking opportunity.

Loyalty and commitment helps in gaining access to a range of opportunities that helps young people grow up responsibly and engaged in the world.

Finally, volunteering is an exceptional way to gain skills necessary for success in almost any job.

Time spent volunteering is not time that is lost or has to be given up from a busy life, it is time used effectively to learn problem-solving skills, planning capabilities and the skills to collaborate and work in teams.

This year is also an election year, meaning there are a multitude of other ways to get involved in the political process. The election may only be three weeks away, but there is no shortage of work still to be done.  Canvassing, get out the vote drives and early voting (beginning Oct. 22) are still ahead. In such a critical election year with competitive races on both the state and federal levels, there is no better time to get involved in political campaigns.

Political affiliations aside, there are plenty of ways to be part of the process.  Both Team Obama and Team Romney are looking for volunteers down the home stretch.

You can get more information on organizing with Obama at www.barackobama.com/co or at the Obama office located just a block off campus at 2442 S. University.

You can find more information on organizing with Team Romney at www.mittromney.com/states/colorado, or visit the Romney office at 110 Cook Street near Cherry Creek Mall.

If you are just looking for general opportunities to get involved in the community, stop by the Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning (CCESL) located in Driscoll South, or online at www.du.edu/ccesl/.

They have many opportunities available for students to work in the community for a day, a week or even longer.