After an extended interruption of on-campus life, the Associated Students of Whatcom Community College student government believes many students are eager to get back to normal.
“I truly believe that students would like to engage with the campus community, and the only way we can achieve that is by simply getting the word out,” said Jessica Haryono, ASWCC VP for Clubs.
She says joining clubs is a great way for new and returning students to connect with others who have similar interests and to learn something new outside of their classes.
Student involvement is on the rise as the school transitions from a Covid-restricted campus to one without those same restrictions. However, Haryono says that “this new environment takes some getting used to.”
The Syre Student Center on campus hosted the 2022 ASWCC Club Fair on Oct.13 as part of the campaign to drive student engagement. Eighty-two students attended to browse the 13 existing and prospective clubs available, with four new clubs submitting forms indicating interest.
Haryono said the purpose of the Club Fair was to give students an opportunity to learn more about clubs and what each of them does.
Whatcom student Frida Berenice Gonzalez attended the event and described it as welcoming, noting all the different interests on campus.
“There’s a little bit of everything,” she said, after declaring her interest in a Philosophy Club (which is currently not chartered).
Starting a new club can be intimidating, but Haryono outlined a simple three-step process.
Clubs need at least five interested students, and at least one faculty member or full-time staff member who is willing to serve as Club Advisor.
Two of the five students and the club advisor must go through and complete Club Training.
Complete the ASWCC Chartering Packet and submit it to the Office of Student Life and Development on the second floor of the Syre Center.
Students who wish to start a new club should contact Jessica Haryono at jharyono@whatcom.edu and request the 22-23 Club Chartering Packet.
