DeKalb – The Involvement Fair at NIU allows students to learn about clubs and organizations offered on campus.

After being postponed, NIU’s fall Involvement Fair took place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday.

Crowler Bonomo, a senior theater studies major, shared about what makes a table at the fair welcoming and inviting.

“It’s really about the people managing it – making sure they’re friendly and welcoming,” Bonomo said. “Sure, having stickers and having free stuff is nice, but it’s mainly about the people.”

RJ Mallari, a senior computer science major and member of the Philippine Student Association, explained some club goals.

“We really want to expand our club and reach more of the community. It’s been a little smaller over the past few years due to COVID, but we’ve been slowly building up,” he said.

Malari also shared that his club is not just for the Filipino community, but for everyone.

“PSA is for all students who want to learn about culture and food,” he said.

David Robinson, a sophomore double-majoring in political science and economics, represented the NIU Tennis Club.

Robinson shared how students are left with club information after checking out the table.

“Students join the NIU Huskie Hub, and on our Instagram, we have a poster talking about when we meet,” Robinson said.

Organizations and clubs at the fair have goals of putting themselves out there while also hoping to gain student involvement.

Chamayze Hall, a junior art and dance major, is president of the Idol Club Organization. Hall shared that club numbers have increased after every involvement fair they’ve been a part of.

“I know last year we had roughly 10 people come in, so that’s great,” Hall said.

Idol Club Organization is not the only group that has seen growth after involvement fairs. Clubs and organizations all over NIU the past few years have seen growth from 10-15 new members.

Bonomo explained how beneficial it is for students to attend the involvement fair in both the fall and spring semesters.

“It’s a good way to socialize, get out of your house or dorm and figure out more about what is going on around campus. There are always new things,” he said.

If students missed the Fall Involvement Fair, a second one is offered in the spring.