By: Halee Fyke
Photo Credit: Parkland College Facebook
With the start of the 2021-2022 school year at Parkland College, students and faculty are making a comeback in Student Life with the continuation of numerous organizations as well as the introduction of a few first-year clubs to the Champaign area.
Getting involved in college is more beneficial than many individuals may realize. When you join an organization or club on campus, you are becoming more than just another member, you are learning to be a leader, enlarging your knowledge, and learning self-expression skills.
Below is a list of Parkland’s clubs for this school year including co-curricular organizations, recreational, and multicultural clubs:
Alpha Phi Omega
Art & Design Club
Astronomy Club
Parkland Business Club
Club Access
Parkland Motorsports
Parkland College Student Education Association (PCSEA)
Parkland Scholars Club
Phi Theta Kappa
Student American Dental Hygienists Association (SADHA)
Science Club
Veterinary Technology Club
Club Latino
International Students Association
Japanese Culture Club
Parkland PRIDE!
Student Veterans Association at Parkland (SVAP)
Board Game Club
Being an incoming freshman to any school can be intimidating. First-year college student Alexa McMahel stated, “I was very active in high school with clubs, and I’d love to continue on with that in college. I feel like clubs provide a passageway into making friendships, having fun, and overall, for getting life experience!” Having the opportunity that Parkland offers students to get involved can be a great segue and starting point to a well-rounded college experience.
For students of any major or career choice, Parkland offers a wide variety of groups to get everyone involved. Different organizations are a great way for students to more comfortably share their passions while benefiting their futures.
Second-year student Alexis Butsch stated, “The clubs and organizations that Parkland offers help students to engage with their peers and to be more comfortable in the college atmosphere. It’s especially helpful and convenient for new students who need advice or direction in their path, as well as friendship from others.” No matter what year you are in college, or how old you are, there is always room to start a new journey. After all, you may find your true passion in a place you never thought to look!
Clubs at Parkland are a great way for students to meet individuals with similar interests, build connections both inside and outside of school, and expand their knowledge and experience portfolios.
I spoke with last year’s Parkland College Student Education Association (PCSEA) co-president Kareena Patel on club life at Parkland. Patel stated, “Being involved in PCSEA as a co-president impacted my education and personal life positively. When I accepted the position of co-president, I was stepping outside of my comfort zone. I had never taken on a leadership role before, so the idea of being co-president was daunting. As the year progressed, my nerves began to fade away. I became comfortable with using new technology and speaking in front of new people. During my time as co-president, I was introduced to some wonderful people. I am forever grateful for this experience and my leadership team!” As students, we never know what opportunities a club can bring our way, so get involved, think outside your box, and have fun!
To join any of the above clubs and organizations, you can reach out to the Office of Student Life at (217) 351-2216 and/or to Activities Program Manager Josh Clark at jclark@parkland.edu or (217) 353-2627.