The Fall Club Fair gave students an opportunity to explore campus organizations, meet club leaders and learn more about ways to get involved. Clubs set up tables to showcase their activities, interests and goals to prospective members.
Rowan Kelley, junior psychology and Christian behavioral science double major, serves as president of the Nertz Club. Nertz is a fast-paced card game that combines elements of solitaire and speed.
Kelley became involved with the club through her interest in the game and has seen how campus organizations can bring together students with shared interests.
“It’s a great way to not only provide for those who have a niche interest but also to provide for those who are leading things and get them to meet people who are in similar boats,” Kelley said.
Kelley said clubs can give students opportunities to connect through shared interests outside their classes or majors. The Nertz Club focuses on fellowship, community and having fun through the game.
Other clubs also use activities and events to help students build relationships.
Asiyah Edwards, sophomore accounting major and vice president of the Black Student Union, said the organization has helped her connect with others on campus.
“I’m really focused on having fun with my friends, making new friends and just learning about different people as well,” Edwards said.
BSU hosts events that give students opportunities to gather and participate in activities together.
“One of the events that BSU does is that we collaborate with Cal State Fullerton and they give students a discount on tickets to get in,” Edwards said.
Other campus organizations build connection through shared interests and skill development.
Megan Cota, junior communication sciences and disorders major and vice president of the American Sign Language Club, said the organization gives students opportunities to learn more about ASL and practice communicating with others.
“It’s more designed to let hearing people learn about the language and communicating. In the club, we really try to focus on the basic signs and basic communication or conversation,” Cota said.
As vice president, Cota has also had opportunities to improve her own signing skills while helping other students practice basic communication.
Cota also reflected on what makes club involvement appealing to students.
“The nice part about clubs is that it’s not a commitment like class. So you can try it, and if you don’t like it, you don’t have to go back,” Cota said.
Club involvement gives students room to explore interests, build relationships and find community beyond the classroom.
