The University Student Union balcony breathed with energy as nearly 90 clubs and organizations signed up for the Student Clubs and Organizations Fair on Monday. Students were encouraged to find an interest group that fit them.

A variety of organizations took part — professional groups, cultural groups, religious groups, recreational groups and Greek life, to name a few. The balcony filled with curious students as club representatives answered questions and offered giveaway items.  

For freshmen Bryce Granata, a biology major, and Greyson Canterbury, a Spanish major, the event was a great way to become engaged with other students and staff on campus.

“Last semester, we came to this event, and we had kind of an idea of what we wanted to do, but then coming to this solidified it,” Granata said. “It gave us a better idea of what we were becoming a part of in a sense.”

Canterbury, who held a selection of fliers, had success finding a new club.

“I found the study abroad club,” Canterbury said. “I’m applying for study abroad next year, so it was pretty cool to find this today. They meet and talk about their experiences. It’s for people who have a plan to do it or have already done it.”

Among the groups was Associated Students, Inc. (ASI), which has begun preparing for election season by giving out petitions and information regarding the Fresno State 101 program. This program sends students to Sacramento to learn how to lobby.

Ashleigh Rocker Greene, program coordinator for ASI, commented on the importance of the fair.  

“There are a lot of students that don’t make it up into the offices, so it’s nice to come out to where the students are so they can get an idea of what kinds of services and clubs are available on campus,” Rocker Greene said.

Getting involved leads to students getting better grades, making more friends and having an improved college experience, she said.

The event, which occurs every semester, has shown to help groups like the Sustainability Club to increase their membership.

“Compared to last year, we’ve had a lot more people. We’ve seen our membership double. It’s really nice,” said Samantha Mallory, a junior majoring in environmental science. “Our member base is a lot stronger. [Students] are coming out to the events, and they’re really getting involved.”