At this year’s club fair during long lunch on September 30th, students gathered in the Quad to explore the wide range of clubs on display. Booths and tables were spread across the area, displaying clubs from sports to academics, arts, and cultural organizations. Students conversed with one another, and the quad was filled with laughter. The fair offered great opportunities for students to meet new people and explore activities outside of their usual interests. 

Event organizer and Dean of Student Life, Ken Rosenfeld, observed the lively atmosphere. “I noticed a lot of excitement,” he said. “There was a good flow between the different clubs and visitors. It was exciting to see how club leaders were also checking out other clubs being represented.” 

During the club fair, students could pick up information, ask questions, and sign up for clubs that they were interested in. Students walked from booth to booth, talking with club leaders to learn more about the experiences they offer. Jeremy Efuetngu (’26), who started a new card games club, shared his excitement despite a low turnout at the first meeting. “I wanted to share my interests in cards with the rest of the community,” he said. “Just find time when you can and be with people who enjoy the same things you enjoy, so you don’t feel as alone on campus.” 

One of the popular returning clubs this year was an ecology-based group led by Victor Zhang (’27). Leading the club has helped Victor grow personally, learning to face challenges with courage. “I gained a lot of confidence and personal strength when facing challenges because, as a club leader, not everything goes your way,” he explained. Victor advises students to indulge themselves in the club culture at Webb and to fully take advantage of opportunities while they last.  

Jerry Chen (’26), who leads the Harkness Club, highlighted the importance of demonstrating leadership skills he learned throughout his years at Webb as a club leader. “Part of it is planning and recruiting members, and getting people interested in what you’re doing,” he said. He encouraged students to explore different clubs, even if they are unsure about them at first.  

Students across all grades enjoyed the event as they were able to take a break from their usual routines to explore new activities. Incoming freshman, Marius Zhang (’26) said that students should open up their minds to try a new activity they find interesting. “The risk [of trying a club] is very low,” he said. “I’d take this opportunity to try as much as possible.” He also pointed out the positive energy at the fair, with many students buzzing with excitement at this annual event. “People seemed happy, maybe just to escape from their work for a while,” he said.  

Club fairs have been part of Webb’s tradition for many years, providing students with a chance to get involved in something beyond their academics. Over time, the variety of clubs has grown to demonstrate the diverse interests of the student body; these clubs help students build skills that are important not just in high school, but in the future as well. . As Victor Zhang put it, clubs allow students to “touch the community” and grow through being a leader and a team player.  

For students who missed the fair, there is still a chance to join one of the 87 clubs offered this year. Students can reach out to club leaders or find relevant information online to get involved. As Jerry Chen advised, “you can take small steps forward, maybe choose one [club] that you’re especially interested in.”