Being a first-year on a new campus may be an overwhelming experience for some students. The pressure of finding friends and adjusting to a new course workload, all while navigating a new city, may contribute to the stress felt during the transition into college. However, clubs can offer new and current students the opportunity to ground themselves into campus life. 

Last Wednesday, Seattle University clubs gathered on the quad at the Involvement Fair, offering a variety of unique communities based on interests or identities. 

The clubs assembled around the fountain and the Quad to set up their tables with each corner designating sections to different interests. One could find an area for sports clubs, academic clubs, arts clubs, and social justice clubs. Other organizations such as the Student Events & Activities Council (SEAC) were also present at the fair.

Each club tried its best to lure in students by sharing its mission statement, each with their own unique approach. 

“We’re telling people it’s not too high stakes. We really only meet like once a month, so it’s not something you have to commit to too often,” Angelina Riley, a fourth-year strategic communication major and the co-president of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) said. 

Some clubs take a more casual approach to students who aren’t looking to significantly increase their workload. However, while still “not too high stakes,” the PRSSA offers numerous opportunities to students to get engaged on campus. 

“We offer great opportunities to learn, get professional experience, find internships, and even earn scholarships,” Riley said. 

The fair also allowed clubs like the Black Student Union (BSU) to share their mission. Samaj Gills, a third-year communication and media major and vice president of BSU, shared her club’s mission. 

“What makes us unique is we don’t just support Black students. We support students of color as a whole and ultimately supporting students who need a support system,” Gills said.

Other clubs, such as the Seattle U Crew Club, have a community-driven approach. Ben Murphy, a second-year mechanical engineering major, explained his reason for joining one of the campus clubs.

“The main thing that really drew me in was the community that running has. It’s an instant sort of bond… just doing it with people really brings people together,” Murphy said.

However, as a sports club, Seattle U Crew has many engaging activities. 

“We provide the opportunity to go out on Lake Union and see parts of the city you probably wouldn’t have before. Last year, we traveled all over the country, including the Nationals in Oak Ridge, Tenn.,” Murphy said. 

Besides sharing their mission statements, the Club Fair allows clubs to share how they help students in their community. 

“The biggest thing is making sure that [students] have a support system. Black Student Union’s main goal this year is just being that support system for all students involved,” Gills said. 

These mission statements and goals work to help students from different backgrounds, cultures, and interests find the right club. Looking for the right club could be stressful for some; however, the fair allows new-coming students to browse at their leisure to help them make the right choice. Students who attended the event left with positive reviews.

“It’s great! I’m going around getting a lot of free drinks, free food—I love that! And also socializing with different clubs. It’s a great way to engage because I didn’t know half of these existed. Talking to people and having them explain things, I learned a lot,” Kai Nguyen, a first-year nursing major, said. 

The Student Involvement Fair allowed students to explore most of what Seattle U offers in terms of clubs; however, not all clubs on campus were present at the fair. ConnectSU helps students explore other clubs that might not have made it to the fair or are not as popular. 

The Student Involvement Fair can serve as an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the college experience. Whether you’re looking to join a club that aligns with your major, explore a new hobby, or connect with others who share your passions, there’s a place for everyone.