Clubfest Matches Students With Campus Clubs

On Thurs, Feb. 17, room 3218 in the Student Union Building was buzzing with activity. Numerous clubs gathered together for Clubfest, the bi-annual festival where clubs and student groups gather to show their organization to attempt to gain new members.  Posters were set up, fliers were passed out, and a few dancers were enjoying the lively music that blared from the International Dance Club's stereo. The room was filled with a plethora of activity from the wide range of clubs.

Various cultures are celebrated in clubs such as the L.U.N.A. club, which stands for "Latinos Unidos Nostros Americanos". This energetic group is devoted to sharing characteristics of Hispanic culture. "We want students to appreciate their heritage while assimilating into American culture," Yaiza Betances stated. Other international clubs include Italian club, Haitian club, and the Filipino club.

Also present were clubs that offered  creative outlets such as the Organic Gardening club, Photography club, and Art Club.

Melanie Mowery, President of Art Club, described some of the trips that the club would be taking to places such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art. Secretary of Art Club, Crystal Cabrera, listed the various workshops and activities that the members do. Both she and Melanie encourage students interested in the club by saying, "You don't have to be an artist. All you need is an appreciation for art."

There are several clubs, each with their own approaches to reaching out to those in need. The Advocates of A.D.A. (Americans with Disabilities Act) club is dedicated to making RCC's campus more accessible for handicap students. Members of Habitat for Humanity are taking their charity work on the road, traveling to New Orleans in the spring to aid in rebuilding what was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. Secretary Katherine O'Neill explained that the club will have several fundraisers to collect money for the trip.

Other student organizations are raising awareness of current issues in our society and around the world. Democracy Through the Eyes of Women informs of crucial matters such as domestic violence while the heinous crime of human trafficking is addressed in the Anti-Slavery Committee. Mental health issues and suicide prevention are discussed in the Active Minds club.

Other clubs include the newly formed Book Club, and the Transfer Club, which helps RCC students transfer to other colleges once they have graduated. Other clubs are more academically focused such as Alpha Beta Gamma. This business club will be taking a trip to the stock market, an excellent opportunity for students pursuing business majors.

         Clubfest proved that there is a club for each student. Whether it's to meet people that share a common interest, use a talent, or become involved in the community, joining a club at RCC is a productive and fun way to spend some of your free time.