Tuesday, August 26, 2025

Dispatch from the Involvement Fair

Yesterday I got my English 101 students started writing their rough drafts.  Halfway through class time, I left them writing while I went over to the Involvement Fair where I would be staffing the Poetry Club table.  Those of us who had RSVP'ed had a table ready, with a chair and a sign with the name of our club or group.

Most people brought extra items, and as I looked at other tables, I made notes for next time--some interestingly textured cloth to cover the table would be good, or even just a tablecloth that makes a bright pop of color.  Many people had candy or snacks on their tables.

I did think about flyers, and happily, our student who is in charge of revitalizing the Poetry Club has graphic design skills (and knowledge of computer design programs) that I don't have.  She created amazing flyers.  She also created a poster for the table; I brought a table top easel:


We lucked out in terms of the weather.  It was hot in the sun, but those of us who wanted to be in the shade had help moving tables.  The sky was blue and beautiful, and we had no threat of rain.  

I was surprised by how many groups showed up to showcase the opportunities for student activities and involvement:


It was lovely, spending a few hours standing and sitting in a central part of the campus where I don't often go, the area with the dining hall and the student activity center and some dorms.  I got to see students from past semesters, another reason why I should leave my office more often.  It's good to know that they are still in school, still making progress.

But more than that, it was good to see so many students who were so enthusiastic as they talked to people at the tables.  Even if they didn't want to sign up, they were still happy to be there, on a college campus, under a bright blue August sky.

I was too.

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