Activities fair features over 120 ways to get involved on campus

Students gathered on the Kirby Terrace last Thursday, Sept. 6 for the annual Activities Fair. Photo by Jake Barnard

The annual activities fair was held on Sept. 6, showcasing just over 120 groups and organizations. Everything from sports clubs, to greek life and philanthropic groups were on display to show students what they are all about.

One of the on-campus groups at the fair was the Bulldog Rocketry group. They showcased one of their 20-foot-long rockets they built last semester. They have had success in regional and national competitions in the past four years.

“We went to nationals last year in New Mexico,” Bulldog Rocketry president Martin Anderson said. “We got second place out of 140 different teams.”

Over 120 club and organizations were organized by various categories. Photo by Jake Barnard

The members of the group built the rails and motor by themselves, using their knowledge of engineering and chemistry. They had won the past three consecutive Midwest competitions, and made the jump to national competitions last year.

Many of the groups at the event are dedicated to making a change either locally at UMD, or around the world. One example of these groups, She’s The First, had their sights on making that kind of difference.

She’s The First holds various charity events throughout the semester, such as selling grilled cheese sandwiches for 5K marathons. They have only grown in the past few years.

While these organizations help people overseas, others look to help students here on campus. You Matter is one such group, aiming to give students a safe environment and community to discuss mental health and end stigma.

If students didn’t find what they were looking for at the fair, Greek Life & Student Organizations Coordinator Kathleen MacLeay says there are more groups and opportunities.

“BulldogLink on the website is a good resource, and we also offer one-on-one consultations with professors to see what group would be right for that student,” MacLeay said.

For those interested in joining a sports team, the fair had no shortage of those options. Badminton, rugby, soccer, and for the first time ever, baseball were all looking for people join their teams.

Many groups offered candy or prizes to draw students into their table. Photo by Jake Barnard

One of the captains of the rugby team, Sam Freeman, encourages people to give UMD sport clubs a shot.

“They’re a large part of enjoying the college experience,” Freeman said. “It takes away from the mundaneness of just going to class, doing homework, then going home.”

Some new faces were introduced at the fair this year as well. Although not all the new clubs and organizations could go to the fair, some of them still appeared, such as the A-Cappella group.

For those who couldn’t attend the activities fair, it isn’t too late to get involved. A list of all the groups are available on BulldogLink.