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So, freshmen, you want to be a Bruin? Step one: figure out what it is that you like to do.

Not only does UCLA have seemingly millions of people and thousands of classes, there are just as many niches for you to chose from.

I’m not saying you should join every organization. I only suggest that if you have an interest, you should follow it. And one of the most rewarding experiences – assuming you have a penchant for athletics – is getting involved in the UCLA sports community.

UCLA athletics stretch far beyond its 21 varsity teams: it includes everything from co-ed intramural volleyball to club hockey. If you weren’t this year’s hottest recruit, that’s okay; there’s still a vast variety of opportunities for you.

“The best decision that I made during my second year was to join the club lacrosse team,” third-year political science student Victoria Bohannan said. “Not only did I get in pretty good shape and learn a new sport, I made some great friends.

“I was able to be a part of a team again, and I found people to look up to and to count on,” she added.

Because of the caliber of both academics and athletics, many college students sacrifice varsity opportunities at other colleges in order to indulge their minds. At least that’s what they tell their relatives.

At only the best universities is it common to hear that so-and-so “would be on the team if he went to another school.” The ability and desire of many students is impressive.

Don’t believe me? Just check out next quarter’s IM basketball league. On any given night you will find a multitude of both men’s and women’s teams battling it out on the court, not for a national championship or a chance to forego their last two years of eligibility, but simply for the win.

A high school varsity athlete myself, when I came to UCLA it was very clear that the only blue and gold jersey I would don would be the one I’d wear in the student section of Pauley Pavilion. In order to answer my craving for the competition and team unity that had been a part of my life since I was five, I joined a group from my dorm floor and played IM volleyball.

I was playing my favorite sport with people who loved it as much as I did and who challenged me athletically. A and B level UCLA IM sports are not your average recreational team. These people know how to play, and they want to win.

For those who aren’t out for blood, there are levels that are more recreation based.

“It was great to be able to get back into sports in a casual way with people who just wanted to have fun,” said Cory Putman, a third-year psychology student.

The best part about playing IM sports was that I was on a team with girls I had played against during my previous two club volleyball seasons. Through this experience, UCLA became a little smaller for me.

Participation in IM or club sports drastically shrinks the size of the UCLA community. Meeting new people is so much better when you are doing something you enjoy together.

“Through being involved in a club team, you develop a great sense of pride to know that you represent the University of California Los Angeles,” third-year psychology student Nicole Everett said. “Being part of a club team also really makes the university feel a lot smaller. Our team feels like a really close group of friends, almost like a family.”

Maybe after participating in a sport here you will get to know your neighbor’s best friend’s son’s cousin Joe, next time you’re asked. It broadens your circle and shrinks UCLA.

Beyond the enjoyment of pursuing one’s own athletic ability is the respect you develop from watching awesome talent recruited by UCLA every year.

From the seats of the Rose Bowl and Pauley Pavilion, history is made right in front of your eyes. If you’re lucky enough, you’ll even see John Wooden at the home basketball games.

The UCLA tradition of excellence is repeated year after year. With five more championships accrued this year alone, UCLA padded its lead among colleges for most NCAA titles won. Even those who swear they aren’t Bruin fans are roped into watching UCLA duke it out during March Madness.

Whether it’s women’s rugby or ultimate Frisbee, UCLA offers an athletic venture for your liking.

Don’t be intimidated by the size of the school. There’s something here for everyone.

Still want to be a Bruin? Step two: pursue your interest and get involved.

Teller is an assistant sports editor for the 2000-01 year who would love feedback if you feel so inclined. Write to her at cteller@media.ucla.edu.