During the 2007-2008 school year, the Student Association has recognized four martial arts groups, each different and each with unique goals.

The groups include the DeKalb Flying Dragons, Chang’s Hapkido, Kodokan Judo and the NIU Hapkido Club.

According to Student Association Vice President Jason Andree, each martial arts group is different.

“They meet different needs of students,” Andree said.

Being recognized by the SA has its benefits. Student organizations may put up flyers and even rent rooms. Andree said that this could be greatly beneficial to students.

“It gives students a place to meet instead of meeting at someone’s residence,” Andree said.

Being approved by the SA requires students to fill out forms and seek approval of the senate, and after a trial of temporary recognition, the organization could be recognized. Student organizations are required to have a president, treasurer and adviser.

Jonathan Pantea, a junior electrical engineering major and organizer of Chang’s Hapkido at NIU, started a class after years of training with Master Gedo Chang.

Pantea says martial arts training taught him discipline and respect and helped him get his life in order. Pantea believes Hapkido could benefit all students at NIU.

“We work on personal development more,” Pantea said.

Megan Gray, a junior geology and environmental geosciences education major, also believes students can learn a great deal from martial arts.

Gray leads the DeKalb Flying Dragons at NIU. Gray believes that students should have options when it comes to martial arts on campus.

“Every martial arts has a different kind of flavor,” Gray said.

Gray feels that martial arts has played a major role in her life.

“Martial arts has really helped me in my life,” Gray said. “It helped me find my way and be comfortable with myself.”