Over 100 tables lined the grass of Library Green on Saint Mary’s campus Thursday evening to promote local resources, campus departments and student organizations at the Student Involvement and Resource Fair, sponsored by the Office of Student Involvement.
From 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Saint Mary’s students spoke with their peers in leadership positions of their respective groups in order to get more involved on campus and in South Bend.
“It is an opportunity for students to learn more about student organizations,” director of Student Involvement Hannah Francis said, adding, “both Saint Mary’s specific and tri-campus, departments and community resources available.”
Each resource, club and organization was provided a table, with some displaying signs and had email lists for people to sign up. Others laid out photos and flyers to show the work and fun their community offers. Some tables even brought props and showcased some of their work.
Francis estimated 115 tables were spread across the green, including clubs such as Notre Dame Waterski, First Gen Family, Physics, Riley Dance Marathon, The Sisterhood of Service and Yoga.
Franky’s Tacos food truck also handed out free tacos to students who signed into Belle Tower and received a red ticket from administrators. Several tables also provided candy, snacks and other items.
Many of clubs and resources use the event to find potential members. “The Involvement Fair gives us the most participation because we take the email list form here,” senior Lydia Alexander said.
For students who didn’t attend the event and still want to know more about clubs, organizations, and events, Francis suggested students look at Belle Tower, a website which provides information about all of the clubs and organizations Saint Mary’s has to offer.
Francis shared her hopes for students attending the event. “My hope is that they are able to find an organization that speaks to them and learn more about their Saint Mary's community, and the greater community at large,” she said.
Francis hinted at a second Resource and Involvement Fair to be offered and hosted during the spring semester, though nothing has been finalized.
“I thought it was fun,” sophomore Kelsey McGrath said, who plans to join Smick Cycle, a cycling and workout club associated with the Angela Athletic & Wellness Complex. McGrath also plans to continue her involvement with the Student Activities Board (SAB).
Junior Meghan Bowen said the event was great and was glad she attended.
Sophomore Rose Lopez agreed, stating, “I thought it was better than last year.”
Others felt it should have been inside, including sophomore Colleen Quinn.
“[The] outdoors was a little chaotic, and it was a little too hot.” she said.
Overall, the Student Involvement & Resource Fair provided a space for all students to explore new passions or hobbies and learn more about what Saint Mary's clubs and organizations has to offer.
Sophomore Ava Swistowicz thought the event was fun and pointed out, “I think there’s a lot of different options for clubs to join.”
