As the school year begins, there are many ways to build connections on campus. Fresno State offers over 200 clubs, making it arguably the easiest way to get involved, make new friends and try something new. The Collegian spoke to leaders from five groups to help students find where they fit in this school year. No matter the major, there is something on campus for everyone.
Bulldog Bowling Club
Love to bowl? The Bowling Club welcomes players of different skill levels to try out for a position, train and compete as a team. Members participate in practices with light workouts and several tournaments throughout the school year across different parts of the U.S. Orientation for the club is set for Tuesday, Aug. 26, at 6:30 p.m. A one-time $300 fee covers the entire bowling season, with access to discounted gear and coaching.
“Bowling gives students a sense of being a part of a team … without trying high-end sports,” said Assistant Coach Riely Chin.
Reach out at [email protected] or follow @fresno_state_bowling on Instagram for more information.
Anthropology Club
Although the name may look intimidating, don’t overthink it. The Anthropology Club is open to all majors and focuses heavily on community, connection and culture. From themed meetings on cultural traditions to study nights with snacks and coloring, the club offers a welcoming space for socializing and de-stressing. Meeting schedules vary each semester, and info is always shared through social media or email, if preferred. No experience or fee is required to connect with this club—just curiosity and attendance at some of the club meetings.
“People probably think they are walking into some crazy academic study thing, but really, it’s community, fun and wanting to see each other succeed,” said Club President Emily Ovalle.
Find them on Instagram @anthroclub_fs or through ENGAGE to get involved.
Criminology Mock Trial Club
The Mock Trial Club provides students with hands-on courtroom experience by preparing them to compete against hundreds of other teams across the nation. Members take on roles as witnesses and attorneys in trial settings where they build skills in arguing, performance and public speaking. Members do not need experience to take part in this club, just work ethic. Practices are on Wednesday nights and Saturday mornings on campus. The first information session is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 20, at 6 p.m. in Science II Room 309.
“Even if students aren’t going to law school, learning to speak in public and confidently argue are important skills,” said Mock Trial Coach Christopher Irwin.
Email [email protected] to get involved and follow @fresnostatemocktrial for more information.
Esports Club
Are you a big fan of video games? Fresno State’s Esports Club picks up five teams: Valorant, League of Legends, Rocket League, Overwatch and Marvel Rivals. These teams compete across the U.S. in the National Esports Collegiate Conference (NECC) and more. Tryouts are held each semester and provide opportunities for new members, returning members and substitutes. To date, the club has earned seven championship trophies and offers a supportive community, including the Iris Academy team, centered around the LGBTQ+ community.
“It’s always good to try it out, if you don’t make the cut this semester, there’s always next semester,” said Student Leader Maria Roceo Sy.
For more information, check out their Instagram @fresnostatees or join their Discord server through the invitation link on their Instagram page.
American Sign Language Club
Regardless of skill level, the American Sign Language (ASL) Club is open to everyone interested in engaging with Deaf culture and learning how to sign. Monthly meetings include learning opportunities and, for beginners, interpreters are always provided. Many events partner with local Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services to encourage awareness and accessibility. The first meeting is free, and after that, the membership is $20.
“It’s an easy way for people to learn ASL without the anxiety of learning the language,” said Club President Gabriela Mendoza-Calderon.
For updates, including sign-of-the-day videos and meeting dates, follow the club’s Instagram page @fsaslclub.
If none of these clubs sound like your cup of tea, there are dozens more online on Fresno State’s ENGAGE platform. Best of luck this semester!
