PVCC’s vibrant community on display: PVCC Club Day
On Wednesday Sept. 8, the Bolick Student Center was packed with people, a rare sight in the era of social distancing. But that day was special. It was PVCC’s club day.
Lining the hallway from the Bolick Student Center past the library were dozens of tables, each festooned with eye-catching displays and distinctive and often colorful iconography. Pride flags stood proudly on the LGBTQ+ club table, a large red rocket decorated the table of the Piedmont Student Launch Team, still images from different anime series were taped around the perimeter of the anime club table, the CRU christian fellowship table was flanked by a large decorative banner, the Horticulture club had a tri fold display with information on plastic pollution and cups of seeds for students to take, and many more.
Many clubs, such as the international club, have a strong focus on social events. “The main idea of the club is to bring people from all over the world together to learn about different cultures,” said club member Xiohan Fan. The club regularly participates in events like a hayride, hiking, and other activities.
Fan made sure to clarify that just because it might be called the international club, that does not mean that Americans cannot join. “This club invites people from any country, anywhere,” said Fan.
The LGBTQ+ club likewise offers a welcoming, tolerant social environment. “The club is a safe space for LGBTQ+ people on campus to get together and talk,” said club affiliate Alex Kingsley. “All people are welcome here.”
The anime club also has an emphasis on socialization. “We meet, watch and then discuss different anime,” said Club President Maria McCormack. “Even if you don’t have any prior knowledge [of anime] you can check us out.”
Other clubs have a focus on specific activities. The Piedmont Student Launch Team enters a yearly competition held by NASA that challenges college students nationwide to work together to design and ultimately fly a rocket carrying a payload. “Some people don’t feel like they’re smart enough to join [the club],” said club member Faith Brown. “But there are lots of options not related to engineering. And lots of people start out not knowing anything.”
In the event that a student missed club day, they can still sign up for any club of their choosing by going to the PVCC clubs and organizations webpage.
