The phrase "student activities fair" usually brings to mind images of masses of students crammed into the Amphitheater in the sweltering sun. But with steady snow falling from the sky, bitterly cold temperatures and classes in full swing, the annual Winter Activities Fair, sponsored by Student Council, isn't exactly the same as the traditional back-to-school display.
The fair, held yesterday in Newcomb Hall Ballroom, provided students the same opportunity to get involved with new activities while also allowing several new Contracted Independent Organizations to make a debut and recruit new members.
Approximately 70 CIOs set up colorful and attractive booths, using varied methods to attract students' attention. From free cups and frisbees to fliers and shouts of "Like to run a race?" or "Play Rugby!" students were just as enthusiastic about their clubs halfway through the year as they were at the beginning.
"The fair is meant to be a second way for people who haven't gotten involved to come by and chat," said fourth-year College student Kelly Polk, Student Council vice president for organizations.
According to Polk, there has been a huge increase in CIOs over the last semester. The winter fair is a chance for the new groups to recruit people to join.
Alex Walthall and Brendan O'Neil, third-year College students and "Tea Ministers" in the new Tea Club, said they hope the fair will help increase interest before their first meeting next week.
Carrie Rodeffer, a first-year College student, was using the fair in a slightly different way. She wanted to "get the word out" to students about the first Relay For Life, a fundraiser to benefit the American Cancer Society, which will be held here in the spring.
Although fluorescent fliers advertising the event were hung around Grounds, the fair did not provide the same chaotic atmosphere as the Amphitheater.
The fair ran from 1 to 5 p.m., with students wandering in and out all afternoon.
"I just stopped by and signed up for the Foosball Club between classes," first-year College student Chris Lai said.
The Winter Activities Fair may not be as well attended as the Fall version, but it certainly is more comfortable and personable than the Amphitheater for those searching for a new niche.
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