Ohio University’s involvement fair is more than a collection of tables and flyers; it is a place where Bobcats find their people, passions and sometimes even lifelong friends.
Over 300 student organizations gathered on college green Sunday. Bobcats had the opportunity to explore academic clubs, student media organizations and other special interests.
College Green was buzzing with students during the event. As the new school year begins, most student organizations are excited to invite new members to meetings and activities.
Maddy Purcell, a sophomore, was recruiting for OU’s speech and debate team.“I like the environment and everyone actually seems to care,” she said. “I think (the involvement fair) is an incredible way to recruit people, because it’s the one time that you get to see everything in person, get all the vibes from all the clubs and everything involved with it.”
For incoming freshmen, the involvement fair is an opportunity to search for likeminded Bobcats and a comfortable space to make new friends. From book clubs and club sports, to Greek life and multicultural organizations, herds of Bobcats cascaded across the bricks with curiosity.
Wren Cameron, a freshman, is new to campus and visited a variety of tables at the fair. “I was looking at the rugby table, the kickboxing table, there was a bug club I liked, the scuba diving club, all that kind of stuff,” she said.
Not only do some student organizations offer ways to have fun outside the classroom, but others may help a student in their field of study. Kira Schmahl, a freshman, sought out OU’s health care and science organizations and said she had great experience.
“I was able to find some optometry and biology honors societies and also just super fun art-related clubs, so I’m super excited,” she said.
Other organizations offered students a piece of home and a chance to practice passions discovered in high school.
“I found some sort of dog shelter club, because I actually volunteered at a dog shelter back home,” Ian Morley, a freshman, said. “So, it’s cool to continue that here. There are a lot of different activities for everyone.”
For Bobcats who did not make it to the fair and are looking to explore campus, all student organizations can be found on Bobcat Connect. A student may find a club with a quick search, but they can also see a new and exciting event listed in the OU calendar.
Although Bobcat Connect is a great resource, Morley said he plans to attend the involvement fair each year, as it allows students to get to know clubs in person.
“Generally speaking, it’s kind of hard to find out about clubs in the area,” Morley said. “It is pretty impressive, all the (clubs) they have. It’s a lot better seeing them in person and talking hands-on with someone who’s actually in the club.”
Cameron echoed this sentiment and said the involvement fair is an excellent way for new Bobcats to make connections and step out of their comfort zones. “I’m very glad for this,” she said. “I kind of felt a little frazzled beforehand, and this really helped me get involved. There was something for everyone.”
