Alongside the 90+ student clubs on campus, there are also a ton of student organizations to get involved with at Bates! Student organizations allow for further exploration and discovery in both academic and non-academic areas, enabling growth experiences and learning beyond the classroom setting. Please find below categories of student organizations:

Bates College Student Government (BCSG)

Want to make a difference on campus? BCSG is the premier voice of the student body at Bates College, and advocates for issues that ensure an open, equitable, and accessible campus for all community members. BCSG meetings provide a forum for students to voice concerns and support, allowing BCSG to engage in advocacy and articulate student interests to the administration and faculty.

Campus Activities and Traditions (CAT)

Campus Activities and Traditions (CAT) is the student-led source of campus wide events. CAT oversees and plans all-campus events and programs geared to meet the eclectic interests of Bates students and create an inclusive community. CAT is a programming board from the Bates community for the Bates community.

The Ronj

The Ronj at Ross House is an entirely student-run coffeehouse located at 30 Frye Street. Founded in 1997, the Ronj is a space for students to hang out, study, play pool, attend concerts and events, watch movies, and grab a variety of snacks and drinks.  The Ronj provides an open arena for broadcasting art, creative writing, a capella, theater, and comedy, and offers a chem-free environment for students on the weekends.  The Ronj is open for meetings and gatherings of all kinds for students, faculty, staff, and guests, and provides catering services for events around campus.  Truly one of the more eclectic places to be, the Ronj offers a melange of goodies for all of Bates to enjoy.

Village Club Series (VCS)

Marking its 30th year in 2023, the Village Club Series is a Bates tradition. The VCS Crew, comprised entirely of student employees under the advisement of Campus Life staff, plans each Thursday night concert, from artist selection to show production.

Bates Athletics Club Sports

There are a variety of club sports that are supported exclusively by the Bates Department of Athletics.

Bates Music Ensembles

Interested in playing music in a non-academic setting? Join a Bates music ensemble! Opportunities include singing in the Bates Choir, playing in the Steel Pan Orchestra, or joining the Jazz Band. These organizations are maintained by the Music department.