College is back in session and everyone is now getting settled into their new classes, as well as getting to know their peers. However, there is only so much you can learn about those around you in a class setting. The solution? Eureka’s Clubs.
Clubs are an important part of every student’s college-career. Often being the host to many opportunities and connections. Among other things, it provides a perfect space to meet those like minded individuals you may have been searching for.
Though maybe you don’t know what exactly you’re looking for, don’t worry- that’s normal. Eureka hosts a healthy number of clubs and the contents of each can vary much. There are those that celebrate religious beliefs, culture, or even the prospects of leadership.
Groups like the “Disciples on Campus” are present to guide you through their beliefs or simply grow the relationships of those around you.
“You don’t need to be religious to be a part–this is an inclusive place for people to meet,” said Hayden Skaggs, leader of the “Disciples on Campus.” This is a common sentiment across the many clubs. There is no pressure of joining, it is perfectly fine to attend a meeting to try and understand if it’s the place for you.
Genesis Flournoy and Maleah Hill serve as the President and Vice President of “The Black Student Union”. They have created a welcoming and supportive community for all. They aim to provide a ‘safe space for all people of color,” contributing to connections throughout the entire campus for those in need of them. As with other clubs on campus, there is no pressure to join immediately; students are encouraged to attend meetings to get a feel for the atmosphere and determine if it’s the right fit.
The importance of club experience is not to be undermined. Pammy Levinson, Director of Student Engagement, said
“You can develop soft skills, people skills–stuff you won’t learn in a class,” said Pammy Levinson, Director of Student Engagement. Going on to list the benefits of networking and meeting those of similar interests, these communication skills are absolutely pivotal in future career opportunities.
The concept of discovering one’s passion in student clubs isn’t a pipe dream either. Club leaders mentioned that they have witnessed students go on to discover and pursue dreams they once never knew about. One such example follows a student who took on the Disney College program, or another of a student discovering a love for programming and event planning using it to pursue a Masters in Student Affairs.
Clubs are not a side thought to the school, Eureka offers much in the way of assistance to its clubs. Tools like “The Eureka Happenings” is a weekly student newsletter that allows clubs to advertise themselves and what they’re all about; without needing to stress on how to get the message out.
This isn’t all though. If a club finds themselves interested in hosting an event but doesn’t know where to start, Eureka can help. The Director of Student Life is there to assist in any way possible. This includes planning events, assisting in creating fundraisers, etc.
Even with the options Eureka offers in its clubs, some may still be looking for something more specific. Meet some fellow peers who might have a similar interest, and it could very well develop your very own club.
The process requires 5 people (including the one creating the club), and a faculty or staff member willing to be an advisor, and a form submission. This form can be found in the Office of Student Life, and just requires the details of what the club entails.
With a process this simple, it seems as though there are an infinite number of clubs possible, also meaning there is an infinite amount of places for students to find a place for themselves among their peers.
Eureka’s clubs offer far more than just extracurricular activities, they provide spaces for personal growth, meaningful connections, and discovering new passions. Whether you’re looking to build lasting friendships, develop career-enhancing skills, or simply explore new interests, there’s a club for you.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, the opportunity to create your own club is right at your fingertips. At Eureka, the clubs are a gateway to finding your place within the community and making the most of your college experience.
The most important part of all of it, is to simply try. It could open doors students never thought possible.
