By Nathaniel Thomas ’25
Chaminade High School boasts a multitude of extracurricular activities for its students, and these activities encompass a wide variety of subjects, topics, and fields. Some clubs boast over one hundred members while others are smaller groups comprised of students interested in a very specific topic. Navigating the different clubs can be intimidating for a freshman who is trying to learn school policies, adjust to a challenging academic environment, and balance a new social scene. Furthermore, students are often reminded of the importance of joining clubs, but finding just the right activity can feel overwhelming. Because of this, the Chaminade Activity Fair has proven to be a vital resource in introducing students to the clubs and activities Chaminade offers.
On September 14, the freshman class visited the Main Gym to see displays about each activity from the Chess Club and French Club to the Bagpipe Band and Woodworking Club. Students talked to and asked questions of upperclassmen representatives from each club. The Class of 2027 then had the option to sign up for an activity via QR Code. Element Media, which had a television setup, attracted much attention, though every club spent some time in the spotlight from curious and open-minded freshmen. Ryan McGuigan ’25, who represented the Math Research Club, said, “I thought it was nice how there was a lot of diversity in clubs, so you got to see how everyone took interest in different things, and all the clubs got attention from different groups.” Ryan Wynter ’27 attended the fair and stated, “It was pretty interesting to see all the clubs that were available to us. I joined the Business Club and the Culinary Club. It [The Activities Fair] made me choose what I wanted to do.” In an interview, Bro. Thomas Terrill, S.M ‘10, the Director of Student Activities, explained how “this is the second year where it’s been in the main building, and it’s a great way for freshmen to learn what activities we have, to meet some of those leaders, and really to have the upperclass students speak about their passion for those clubs and activities.” When asked about potential changes to the formula, Bro. Tom said, “I think it’s working well, but we’re always looking to improve, to make sure that students know the possibilities that are out there for them, so we are always looking for ways to increase the awareness and for them to sign up.” Though the fair may evolve as the needs of students change, it seems like the Chaminade Activity Fair will continue to help guide students to the right clubs and activities for many years to come.
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