Annual rush fails to build momentum

The semi-annual Club Rush lacked luster as clubs failed to get a high number of sign-ups for their groups.

Encouraging students to join clubs, the event was held in the quad on Wednesday and Thursday last week. The first day was held in conjunction with Constitution Day, creating a lively event.

The clubs that were present included the Tae Kwon Do Club, La Raza Student Union, International Student Club, the Muslim Student Association and several others.

According to members from many of the clubs, the number of students signing up was on the low end at each of their booths.

Some students said they did not realize the purpose of the event.

There was nothing on Contra Costa College’s monthly calendar that mentioned Club Rush, only Constitution Day. A few students who sat in the Library adjacent to the quad during Club Rush knew nothing about the event.

Student Ivan Rojas said he has not yet joined a club because he does not feel informed about any of them.

Rojas said that clubs can become more successful in getting students to join if they display their value. He wants to know the benefits and how club membership will enhance his college experience.

Student Paul Torres said, “They need to broaden the clubs, offer more choices, and make people more aware of them because I’m not sure which clubs are available.”

Student Joselle Dancel said that clubs are time consuming and she also does not know about what clubs are in existence. If she invests her time in a club, she needs more information.

The Engineering and Math Club made ice cream using liquid nitrogen to entice new students to join. Coincidently, it was also the booth with the most students.

The Alpha Gamma Sigma Honor Society, who had the second most sign-ups, showcased their awards.

ASU President Jasmine Ramezanzadeh said sign ups were slow and they are still looking to fill the ASU Board. Joining the ASU gives students the ability to be the voice of their community and works as a great resumé builder.

Ashley Dyas, president of the newly founded Sisterhood of the Traveling Laptops, said joining a club helps students develop skills and gain contacts on campus.

This club is in its second semester and members are trying to rebuild to gain more students.

Dyas said they are “trying to get real stuff done.” This year, they hope to attract new members with a trip to entertainment software giant Electronic Arts.

Nursing major Dan Snyder, who also was unaware of the event, said, “Honestly, I can name you one club. La Raza. And that’s only because I got an event invite on Facebook.”

He and other students suggest clubs promote themselves more than twice a year and publicize incentives and to use social media to reach out. Right now, the ASU Facebook page is not up to date.