Join the Club: the Club Fair returns!

by Henry Rivera

O’Dea’s Club Fair, hosted in the Cathedral Cafeteria, gave students a chance to learn more about the many clubs available at the school. There were many different clubs at the fair, including NHS, API, DECA, and Chess Club. Each group had a large trifold poster board with information about their club and what they do throughout the school year. Students walked around the fair, talked with club representatives, asked questions, and signed up for clubs that interested them. The fair gave students a chance to find something they enjoy and become more involved with O'Dea.  I got a chance to speak to a few members of the clubs and got their impression of or pitch for the club. 

NHS was one of the clubs represented at the fair that requires a special application process. Grayson Goodman, president of the NHS, talked about what students can learn by being part of NHS. "I believe that students can learn to be leaders that serve their communities from NHS," he said. "Also, I think students learn how to work hard at everything they do." NHS also gives students different ways to help others. Grayson explained, "NHS gives you opportunities like running charity projects through the club and being able to help tutor your peers." These opportunities allow students to take on responsibilities while helping their classmates and community. 

API was another club that students could learn about. Gus Stange-Tregear, a member of the club, talked about what makes API enjoyable for students. "The best part of API is coming to the meetings every month, doing fun activities, and eating ethnic foods," he said. API gives students a chance to spend time together while enjoying different foods and activities.  "My favorite activities are our large potlucks where everyone brings in food and we all play games during Irish Block and lunch," Gus said.  

DECA focuses more on business and helps students learn skills they can use in the future. Oliver Heinemann explained, "Students learn how to problem solve from a business mindset." DECA also gives students the opportunity to meet people from other schools. When asked about his favorite part of the club, Oliver said, "My favorite part of DECA was socializing with people at other schools and getting to know them." This makes DECA a club where students can learn business skills while also meeting new people. 

Finally, the Chess Club was also available for students who enjoy chess or want to learn how to play. Students do not have to be experts to join, as Mr. Clapp said when asked if you need prior experience. "I [am terrible] at chess but I like to play -- anyone can join the club." The club gives students a simple way to spend time together and enjoy the game. 

The Club Fair showed that there are many ways for students to get involved at O’Dea. Some clubs focus on helping the community, while others focus on culture, business, or games. These clubs give students different chances to meet people and try something new.