Recently, the annual Activities Fair was held in the lower level of the gym. Creative posters and signs sprung up on tables (and, in the case of some QR codes, on humans). New groups competed with old ones for students’ attention, both through food and through raised voices announcing why one might want to join their specific cause. The clubs advertised had a range of topics such as art, math, robotics, chess, and humanitarian efforts. Overall, it was a vibrant atmosphere that reflected the diversity of the groups themselves. 

I asked some student attendees and leaders their thoughts on the event. One club leader said that the highlight of the Activities Fair was being able to watch students have fun. Another club leader said he enjoyed getting “a lot of people to join my club”. When asked if there was a specific group that they were drawn to, one attendee said that he was particularly interested in the Friends Academy Homeless Helpers club, because they have a good cause that they are supporting. Also, he said, they offered chicken wings. 

Another question asked was if they would be joining any new clubs or committees. While one attendee said no, citing her busy schedule as a reason why, another said he would be joining Model UN, a new club. He said that he signed up to help with his public speaking skills. When asked about their thoughts on how the younger students reacted to their club or committee, a club leader said that freshmen were excited to join his group because they “felt drawn to the club’s goal”. He got thirty people to sign up. Another club leader said that she was also happy with her results, and stated that “since this is a new club, the amount of freshmen who joined was promising”.  

Joining a new club or committee might seem daunting at first, given the pressures of high school, but ultimately it is a great way to meet other like-minded people and give back to the community. Clubs and committees help you develop your leadership skills, allow you to have a say in our school, and bring attention to areas that you feel strongly about.