How to Navigate Clubs Fair
By Freya
It’s a September afternoon and the air is humid with excitement. Sunlight bounces off the white Clubs Fair tent, dazzling the line of students coiled around the Beer Gardens. Week of Welcome can turn the quad into a jungle: an amazon of happy reunions, sullen seniors, pizza and frisbees.
I’m here to welcome you to the jungle! Every year, the University’s clubs set up booths in the main quad to draw interest and new recruits. Showcasing the University’s 400+ student groups, Clubs Fair is the perfect place to make new friends and connections on campus. In fact, it’s almost too good…I remember feeling totally overwhelmed by the sheer number of people and possibilities.
To help you navigate this extravaganza, I’ve put together a list of 3 Things to Expect and 3 Tasks to Complete at Clubs Fair this year. Think of it as a treasure hunt (yes, adults still get to do those).
Things to Expect:
Diversity
Similar to the spice of life, Clubs Fair has great variety in its offerings. The University has over 400 student groups, each dedicated to a different cause. From the Campus Food Bank to the Hide and Seek Club, there really is something for everyone.
Types of student groups include:
Faculty/Department · Residence · Fraternities · Hobby/Interest · Religious · Leadership · Public service · Sports
Games, Demos, & Food
Most clubs don’t just rely on well-designed posters and sign-ups sheets to convince you. Many offer interactive activities… and candy or prizes. Ring toss and spin the wheel are timeless favourites, as well as the Office of Sustainability’s high-stakes game teaching students how to sort their waste into the disposal bins around campus.
Passionate People
It can be hard to remember amidst all the bustle but, above all, Clubs Fair is put together by real, genuine people. Club representatives have volunteered their time to champion their cause, and will likely be thrilled by your interest! So don’t be afraid to stop, chat, and ask what got them hooked.
Tasks to Complete:
Now you have an idea of what to expect, you’re ready to go! Here are some tasks to help you make the most of Clubs Fair. Let the treasure hunt begin.
Go More than Once
That’s right, third time’s a charm. The Clubs Fair is quite big and will take more than a lunch break to explore. Beyond that, there’s the issue of SHYNESS. I wanted to join the Outdoors Club from the moment I saw their booth, but it took me three trips around the tent on three consecutive days to work up the nerve to sign up. Don’t be afraid to take your time or come back with a friend.
for a chance to win a $50 Bookstore gift card. (Photo Credit: UASU Events Team)
Be the Boss
While the club representatives may seem all wise and in-charge, they are the ones begging YOU to sign up. What do you want to get out of your club experience? Remember that YOU get to make the decision:
How big of a commitment do you want? Do you want to take on a leadership role? Can joining this club help you building your resume? Will a club help you fill volunteer hours?
What member perks and discounts do you want?
Who do you hope to meet or network with?
Balance New and Old
Clubs Fair is a great opportunity to branch out and try new things! Sign up for improv club, try programming, audition for a choir. Worst-case scenario: you walk away with free pizza from the intro meeting. But, also remember that university is a place to celebrate your strengths. If you’re a born leader or a great goalie, don’t hesitate to put your skills to use.
Happy hunting, and I’ll see you in the jungle!
