NW Campus held an annual fall semester Northwest Fest Sept. 3, a time for clubs to come and promote themselves for any student that is interested.
The event, coordinated by student activities, saw a large turnout as new and familiar faces traversed through the open space. Students were able to discover clubs and services offered by TCC, then grab a slice of pizza while listening to music and watch fellow peers race each other in Mario Kart all in an afternoon. Services like the transfer center, learning commons and wellness center were also in attendance to provide support and resources.
For some clubs, this was more than just a way to meet others with similar interests. This event acted as a gateway to learning a new skill or obtaining a degree itself.
“Students can learn about and build computers,” Information Technology Club sponsor Greg Harris said.
Harris, a computer science instructor at NW campus, said that clubs like these help facilitate a positive learning environment and teach skills that a student can take to partnered institutions.
“Our information technology program has options to transfer workforce credits to other places offering a bachelor’s like Collin College and Tarleton State University,” he said.
Other clubs, like the Teacher Education Club, are newly established and looking to recruit more people. The recent addition of TCC’s first-ever bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and teaching has piqued the interest of many students, club member Lili Espinoza said.
“The club meets twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays and is open to anyone,” Espinoza said. “Even if you don’t want to major in teaching or education, you can still come learn about it and meet new people.”
According to student development specialist Mariel Sancen, fostering a community for students is the goal.
“We want people to know that you’re not just here to attend class and go home,” she said. “There’s community within the community college. You can join a club, or you can apply to be a student worker.”
Sancen’s piece of advice for incoming students this year? Don’t be afraid to get involved.
“Ask questions, ask for help,” she said. “A lot of students are scared to ask for help because they think, ‘I’m an adult already, I should have it figured out.’ It’s okay, even adults ask for help. So definitely get involved and make new friends, whether it’s inside the classroom or outside. It’ll add more to your college experience.”
