Bwog takes on the annual Columbia Activities Fair to shine light on some criminally underhyped clubs on campus.

Per usual, this Activities Fair was one for the books. On Friday, September 5th, fresh faces packed like sardines in a never-ending crowd. Sweaty students, simultaneously eager to overcommit themselves to club meetings, while anxiously avoiding eye contact with desperate tablers. Please don’t force me to join another mailing list! Nevertheless, this was an unforgettable day for Barnumbia students and one that may very well predict the success of a given club throughout the year.

Bwog’s success is inevitable, of course, but today I’m highlighting some extra special clubs that caught my eye.

Chowdah Sketch Comedy – @cuchowdah

I really enjoyed talking to this lively and seemingly close-knit group of students that is apparently Columbia’s oldest sketch comedy troupe! This no-experience-needed club is enthusiastic about combining writing and humor to create unforgettably hilarious performances. I’m assuming you love to laugh? Of course you do, so this is definitely the place for you. You don’t need to be skilled at both writing and acting because their thoughtful sign-up process allows you to choose which you are most comfortable with—or both if that’s your jam. They meet two times a week, so you are sure to find some best buddies in such a friendly group of people that are truly excited about what they do. And even if this might not be a commitment you are ready for just yet, they emphasized to me how much they love an audience. So come and watch, laugh, and support this great club of creatives on campus!

Brain Exercise Initiative – @bei.columbia

I would assume that Columbia students are well aware of how vital it is to keep one’s mind sharp, not only for performing everyday functions but for the future of our neural health. Wouldn’t it be great if we had a way to help others prioritize their neural health as well? That’s exactly what the Brain Exercise Initiative strives to do! They are a compassionate group of volunteers who work with people living with advanced dementia in assisted living facilities. Their focus on improving cognitive function through engaging in brain exercises is a great way to connect with and uplift community members. Whether you are interested in cognitive science or simply inspired to make a difference, they would love to have you on their team. If you like to spread a little joy through music, they are also calling for musicians to perform at their partnered facilities!

Active Minds – @activemindscolumbia

While we’re on the topic of the brain, I should mention another great group that knows the importance of a healthy mind. Active Minds is focused on mental health and is ready to break the stigma around mental health conversations. Their meetings can range from serious but needed discussions around anxiety and depression to fun ways to decompress around exam season. They’ve hosted yoga and journaling events to ground students in the midst of stress. They also have slime and craft days to reconnect with the silly side of yourself that is often forgotten through the chaos of school. Having a group like Active Minds that is inclusive and truly looks to support the mental well-being of students is a privilege that all should take advantage of. They are also looking for E-board members! This is a great opportunity if you are interested in mental health advocacy or have any great ideas to engage the student body in their events.

Run Columbia – @run.columbia

Finally, if you’re looking for an outlet to yap about your favorite K-Pop groups, Run Columbia could be the place for you! Though I am no expert on K-Pop music, I have come to understand that the fan culture runs deep. This is a hobby that is immensely more fun in the company of friends who carry a mutual passion for K-Pop. It is important to mention, they have a special emphasis on K-Pop dance, but are audition-free and inclusive of non-dancers as well. This is an exciting opportunity to learn choreography, regardless of experience, and participate in exciting showcases! If you’re nervous to perform, start with one of their many other group bonding events. Past ones have included cozy K-Pop watch parties to exploratory trips to K-Town. With all RunCo—nickname for Run Columbia—offers, you are sure to meet lifelong friends and feel embraced by only the best vibes.

A couple of quick shoutouts to some other super cool groups:

Columbia University Buddhist Association – @cu.buddhistassociation 

This club is so cool! You don’t even have to practice Buddhism to attend their lovely weekly meditation sessions. I think this would be such a great way to unwind after a long day of classes—and possibly an alternative to napping. You’ll meet great people and feel grounded for the week to come.

Columbia University Ultimate – @columbiaultimate

I really appreciated how willing they were to accept me despite my lack of athleticism. They are super inclusive of all levels and have both a competitive and non-competitive team! Their poster for Activities Day also made the club sound very enticing, as one of the few cons they could give was the club having “too many sexy baddies.”

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