DeKALB — Students filled the Holmes Student Center Sunday to see how they could get involved with the numerous types of organizations NIU has to offer, including Greek life, sports, social clubs and more.

The Involvement Fair, a part of NIU’s Week of Welcome, was held from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday where new and current students walked on the ground floor of the student center to sign up for new opportunities. There were roughly 105 student organizations at the fair, Alex Pitner, assistant director for student involvement, said.

Ivan Recendez, member of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, said he was excited to see the number of students that were present and that it was nice to have the fair inside this year versus having it outside last year due to COVID-19. 

The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers pushes for professional development by allowing outside companies to host mock interviews for members so they can have an idea of what employers may be looking for.

Many of the members aren’t engineering majors, with Recendez being a business major himself. Allowing for the group to be more open allows for newer members to get the help they need in launching their careers. 

“Although the school has great programs, many students feel like networking with others is a crucial part of continuing education,” Recendez said. “One of our members was able to get employed through our group’s efforts.” 

One fraternity that was present was Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, a Latino-empowering group that highlights Latin unity and the cultural appreciation for Latin customs. 

Antonio Torres, member of Lambda Theta Phi, said he enjoys helping new Latin students get adjusted to college and looks forward to this year’s new members.  

“Hispanic culture emphasizes family, and that’s just how our fraternity truly is,” Torres said. “Being able to have a group of friends with the same interests and goals has been a highlight in my experience on campus.”  

The fair was a chance for students to find out what outside activities might intrigue them. Jorge Fernandez, senior mechatronics engineering major, said, “it’s nice to go through the fair and have so many different types of groups.”

“It’s nice to be able to come through here and meet new friends while also building on my schoolwork,” Fernandez said. “Many of the students I came across today even had the same major and courses with me, so I’m happy to see what the semester brings.”