The University doesn’t often have involvement fairs in the spring, but over 100 students turned out for what faculty and club leaders alike described as a very successful event. Thirty-six stands were set up in the meeting halls on the second floor of the student center, each allowing some of the University’s most interesting and active groups a chance to introduce themselves to students.
All manners of students attended the event. The crowd was a colorful mix of freshmen, transfer students and upperclassmen who had yet to explore all of their club interests. Some came simply to support a friend’s club, even if they weren’t members themselves.
The event began with a slow trickle of students. In the first half hour, those perusing the stands came sporadically and in small groups. As classes let out and word got around, larger groups began filing through the double doors.
Laura Fiorelli of The Monmouth Review said, “I feel that not as many people are here compared to the fall, but the interest is clear.”
The Monmouth Review was one of the many clubs at the fair. Also attending were The Outlook, the Student Activities Board, the Monmouth Math Club, Study Abroad Club, the Running Interest Group, Community Service Club and the Outdoors Club, among others.
Ashish Pagadala, Graduate Assistant, comments, “I was here last semester and joined a few clubs. [Involvement fairs are] a platform to meet people and get involved. For me, as an international student, it was important, as I joined the International Students Club.”
Many clubs set up small games, colorful posters or refreshments to entice more students. The International Students Club gave out cookies, while the Social Work Club had a drink station.
Several Greek societies had party games and decorations to attract the eye and possible future pledges. Tri-fold poster boards showed off the clubs accomplishments as well as photos of their members, showing the sense of belonging and friendship a student can find by joining up with like-minded people.
The faculty involved was very happy with the amount of students that came to the fair. Susan Damaschke, Coordinator of First Year Student Retention said, “This is the first time I’ve seen a spring involvement fair. I think it’s im we did it.”
She also commented, “Many clubs are showing a lot of teamwork here,” saying that the organizations of the University have been cooperating and improving the overall feel of the campus.
Amy Bellina, Director of Student Activities and Student Center Operations, says, “While it was smaller than the fair we have outside in the fall, I still think it was a great opportunity for either new or returning students to make a connection on campus.”