As an incoming freshman, I had no idea how and where to get involved. I am still a freshman, but no longer lost. Here is a list of ten (although, there could be at least two-hundred) clubs that you may or may not have any idea about, but are definitely worth joining*. Get involved everyone!
1. Bad Movie Club:
This takes either first or last place on my personal list of clubs to join. I think I love a good plot and character progression as much as I love criticizing a film that lacks those things. There is something almost cathartic about pointing out plot holes and criticizing Will Ferrell's “acting” that makes me think this club would be a great stress reliever. Then again, if I have to watch Bring It On: In It to Win It, I might have to spend a week under the covers watching Wes Anderson films to relieve myself of the horror.
Why join? Just read their description: “We are dedicated to the discussion and enjoyment of films of amusingly low quality.”
2. Food Exploration Club:
Uh… does this even need an explanation? The meetings are only twice a month (it is a good thing too, otherwise, the Freshman Fifteen might turn out to be the Freshman Fifty). The first meeting focuses on discussing the “food topic” of the month, while the second focuses on eating.
Why join? FOOD! I hardly think I need to convince you.
3. Husky Bhangra (HB):
If I had an ounce of coordination in my body, I would love nothing more than to join. The exuberance! The colors! The outfits! Bhangra is a fusion of Punjabi folk with Western music and dance. I have seen the UConn team compete and it is truly a unique and beautiful display of culture.
Why join? If you are looking for a new family, you will find it with these guys. If you are a competitive monster, you will find your soulmates. No experience needed, and all backgrounds welcome.
4. Tea Education and Appreciation Club:
If you have only had the opportunity to talk to me for at least three minutes, you probably already have an idea of my love for tea. If you can’t find me in class or sitting on my favorite couch, you will probably find me at The Green Teahouse trying every sample and smelling every brew. There is so much more to tea than *scowls* “leaves stuffed in bags that make hot water colorful.”
Why join? Learn about tea history, potential health benefits, brewing methods, and taste different kinds! Imagine how classy you will look.
5. 3-D Printing Club:
Whoa there, inner geek. 3-D printing? Yes! 3-D printing has revolutionized the technological industry, making things that we could only dream of manufacturing come to life. Any experience or education in the area right now should be taken advantage of, because it will only become a larger part of our lives as the years go by.
Why join? It is a great educational opportunity and you'll get to geek out in a judgement-free zone.
6. UCONN Aqua-Life Club:
Do not tell me you have never spent at least twenty minutes of your dinner staring at a gorgeous fish tank instead of listening to your “friends” discuss their favorite lipstick colors. With this club, you will get to learn how to care for and maintain an aquatic ecosystem.
Why join? So you have an excuse to not hang out with these “friends” next time they want to have dinner. Oh, and if you want to learn about how to care for your own fish and tanks, and possibly set up your own around campus.
7. Archery Club:
I am not really into organized sports (unless some genius has finally decided to create a tournament where teams get to binge The X-files for twelve hours straight). However, archery sounds too cool to pass up. There’s an adventurous Robin Hood feeling to it. The best thing about this club is that they take in students at all levels of skill (like me at level -5). As you become more advanced, you have the option to travel and compete as part of the team!
Why join? You will get to meet great new people, and learn a great new skill if you ever need to overthrow the government and save your boyfriend named after a type of bread.
8. Climbing Club/ Rocks Club:
A sport that will challenge your body and mind. It combines physical strength with strategy. With this club, you have the option to try traditional or contemporary climbing activities and methods.
Why join? You will get to learn the ropes (ba-dum-tss) and, more seriously, learn the ropes.
9. HuskyTHON:
This is a yearlong effort to raise money to benefit the Connecticut Children's Medical Center, at the end of which is an eighteen-hour (yes, eighteen!) dance marathon.
Why join? It is as helpful as it is fun. It is a wonderful organization that aims to get the entire community involved and help children in critical need.
10. Magic and Misdirection (M & M):
Do you have a burning need to figure out how your uncle does that quarter trick? Need something to make you look cool at parties? Bored?
Why join? Magic, guys. Magic.
*I tried to avoid service-based or religious organizations to focus on unique activities that most people do not know about. You can get more information on all listed and unlisted clubs on UConn’s UConntact page.
