Campus showcases student organizations at Involvement Fair

CENTER VALLEY, Pa. – Penn State Lehigh Valley’s numerous student organizations were front and center at the campus’ recent Fall 2021 Involvement Fair.

Held on a pitch-perfect late-summer afternoon, the annual event featured representatives from about 25 student groups manning creatively decorated tables lined throughout the campus courtyard. There, they shared useful information regarding clubs, fundraisers and campus resources with interested students, as well as faculty and staff members.

Live acoustic music, a bounce house and free pizza and snow cones added to the event’s festive atmosphere.

Overall, more than 150 students attended the event, according to Assistant Director of Student Affairs Pam Fleck.

“We were thrilled with the turnout for this year’s Involvement Fair,” Fleck said. “We know students are excited to be back in person and making connections. Being able to host this outdoors allowed a level of comfort as well.”

The Involvement Fair has long provided students with a prime opportunity to get involved in campus life at PSU-LV since it allows them to speak one on one with group officers and members in a casual yet meaningful way. And having so many groups in one place provides students with a streamlined approach to comparing their options in terms of co-curricular experiences, one of the most important facets of a well-rounded college career.

“Being involved on campus is one of the best ways to build connections and make friends,” Fleck said. “Clubs and other activities foster a sense of belonging and that is so important to feeling a part of the overall campus community. Students can explore their interests in clubs related to their major, putting into practice skills they are learning in class. They can also engage in hobbies such as gaming or badminton. They can learn about new activities, such as cricket. They can bond with others of similar backgrounds -- like Black Student Union or the Muslim Student Association -- but they can also find an avenue to help educate others on their culture and enhance awareness. There are many opportunities for leadership as well.”

At the event, students had the chance to speak with members of venerable groups like Student Government Association (SGA) and the Honors Club, as well as newer entities like the Cricket Club and the Hispanic Organization and Latino Association (HOLA).

“We had a lot of people come up to the booth today, so I’m kind of excited for what’s to come this year,” said sophomore Miyeli Vazquez, who serves as president of HOLA and vice president of the Global Student Organization (GSO).

Sophomores Aemen Ali and Tobey Field manned the tables for both the Honors and Badminton clubs. Their signs included QR codes that students could use to get additional information on each organization.

“I’m really happy with the amount of signups today,” Ali said.

“A lot of sports take up a lot of time. But badminton is something that’s fun and relaxing and easy for students to take a break from their schoolwork and enjoy,” Field added.

Students thrive on in-person connections, so it’s great that they can resume that aspect of collegiate life after a year and a half of mostly virtual activities, Fleck said.

“The level of interest and participation demonstrates how excited students are to connect with others and engage in out-of-classroom opportunities,” Fleck said. “These events provide ways for students to build friendships, explore co-curricular learning and grow their Penn State spirit.”

For more information on student clubs and organizations at PSU-LV, visit lehighvalley.psu.edu/student-life/get-involved.