Something for everyone at Student Involvement Fair

Students packed Centennial Common on Thursday afternoon for the annual Student Involvement Fair, where representatives from many of Northeastern’s student-run clubs and organizations set up shop to highlight their groups and engage potential newcomers.

Many group members shouted out to passersby urging them to check out their clubs. In addition to their vocal pitches, many groups used creative ways to attract attention. A member of the Korean American Student Association banged a drum, the student radio station blasted music, and the Chess Club set up three chessboards to entice play.

The Center for Student Involvement sponsors the annual fair, which is a popular event during the university’s Welcome Week activities and predominantly attracts freshmen looking to get involved. Northeastern boasts more than 325 student-run clubs and organizations ranging from cultural and religious groups to Greek Life and club sports teams.

“It seems everyone wants to at least give it a try, which is great,” noted Chess Club member Ashley Calderon, a third-year math and business student.

Downbeats a cappella group members Banji Laki, left, and Elise Robinson talked with a prospective member at the Student Involvement Fair. Photo by Brooks Canaday.

Downbeats a cappella group members Banji Laki, left, and Elise Robinson discussed their group with prospective members at the Student Involvement Fair. Photo by Brooks Canaday.

First-year behavioral neuroscience student Katie Levitsky arrived to the fair eager to sign up for the NEURONS Club, which is geared toward students interested in studying the brain. She joined first-year chemistry student Melanie Fritsche and first-year international affairs student Joey Schenosky in visiting numerous tables at the fair, including the Ski Club, the Council for University Programs, and Students for Sensible Drug Policy.

“We’re excited to look around and see what was here,” Fristche said.

The Northeastern University Finance and Investment Club, whose members were dressed in business attire, were there to promote their new mission to prospective members.

Club President Alex Sobrado, a third-year finance and accounting student, noted that the club will bring in more industry professionals and co-op employers to speak with students this year. There will also be case competitions and a chance for members to have lunch with a CEO.

“We are pretty much starting from scratch,” Sobrado said as students signed up for the club. “We are just trying to increase student membership and inform kids about what finance is.”