Students exploring different options during 5th period lunch. photo by Evelyn Jackson
Thomas Jefferson High School’s Club Fair was a resounding success.
This year’s Club Fair was filled to the brim with options for extracurricular activities after school and at lunch. From Jazz Band to Ping Pong Club, there’s something for everyone. With such a variety of activities, students certainly have the freedom to choose from a plethora of extracurricular activities. The club fair has been held annually for several years now, with each year hosting more clubs and activities than the last. The club fair took place this year on September 3rd during 4th and 5th period lunch. Many clubs were handing out flyers, candy, and various other things to attract students.
In total, there were 36 clubs represented, some of which include all grade levels, so options were plentiful. Several of the tables were absolutely packed with students hoping to join. Each table was hosted by students, teachers, and admin promoting their respective clubs. Many tables were entirely student led. Bible Study’s Simon Turner, a senior, was able to comment, saying “Bible study is not to make people believe in God or anything like that. We want to talk about real applications of the teachings of the Bible and how that relates to mental health and taking care of each other!” Turner added that if anyone is interested, the club is held on Wednesdays during 4th and 5th period lunch in room 111.
Several clubs have missions involving making positive change in their community, such as Sustainability Club. One of their student representatives, senior Dani Prime-Morales, stated, “We want to make our community a better place. We go to local elementary schools to help plant gardens, advocate for composting, things like that.” Most clubs still welcome new members even after the fair, so if students missed the club fair, they can still check out any clubs they might want to join here.
Regardless of subject matter, all clubs are designed to nurture friendships, induce creativity, and enhance community. By joining clubs, students are engaging in a community, whether it’s their intention to make friends, help others, or discover a new hobby. Getting involved with clubs, especially for freshmen and new students, is a valuable way to make meaningful friendships and have fun in high school. Clubs can also help build life skills by allowing members opportunities for volunteer work, hands-on activities, and interacting with the world around them.
TJ’s 36 clubs provide a fun and exciting way to find a new interest, work on personal growth, and build life skills. Of course, there’s always the chance someone may not find a club that suits their interests. However, there’s always the option to start a club! All told, this year’s club fair was a resounding success, with an additional four clubs being brand new, including Bridge Club, Guitar Club, Letters Of Love Club, and Shield Our Schools Club. All of TJ’s clubs are run for students, by students. TJ’s clubs help new and returning students alike connect with people who share similar interests, explore new areas of interest, and enhance the overall high school experience. This year’s club fair was a warm reminder that everyone is welcome at TJ and everyone can have a good time while they’re at it.
