The Terry P. Bradley Educational Center (TBEC) held its first-ever Club Rush during lunch, giving students a chance to connect with clubs and advisers on campus Oct. 8.
Activities Director Sophia Barretta estimated there were “easily” more than 150 club sign-ups.
“Club Rush is super important because it sets the ground for what we believe and our culture,” Barretta said. “What [students] value means a lot to us, and I want to make sure that we are representing [students] across the board.”
Tables for each club were lined up next to the G Building. Each table had a sign-up sheet and QR code for students to use. Handmade posters created by the Art Club were displayed at each table.
Club Rush gave students the chance to showcase their interests and express themselves by sharing their passions with others. The event also helped build a diverse and welcoming community at the new school.
Not only did staff say Club Rush had a positive impact, but students did as well.
“Clubs impact TBEC because they help you find new people who have the same interests as you, become closer and build a bigger community,” eighth-grader Kavina V. said.
Heather Miller, Sanchez AB teacher and adviser of the Daily Bread Club, said Club Rush helps students learn about the clubs offered on campus.
“Club Rush is awesome because it’s a dedicated time, you don’t have to try to go find somebody’s classroom, or figure out which day meetings take place,” Miller said. “It’s a dedicated day so they can see all the clubs that are available at once.”
The event was created to give students an opportunity to get involved on campus. Gabrielle Kredel, eighth-grade science teacher and adviser for Robotics, Forensics, and Art Club, said joining clubs is a strong way for students to participate in co-curricular activities.
“I think it’s important to be involved in our community, and one big part of your community is school,” Kredel said. “Joining clubs allows students to build better communities within their school system.”
Eighth-grader and president of the Forensics Club, Nimrata G., started the club to bring her interests from Reyburn to Sanchez Intermediate.
“I found something that I’m really good at, and I want to be able to open the opportunity for others and for myself,” Nimrata said.
Nimrata also added that clubs are a good way to make connections, especially with the school being new and many students not knowing each other.
“You can get really social and you can make friends, especially if you have a hard time,” Nimrata said. “If you join a club that you’re interested in, you’ll find other people who have the same interests as you.”
Other students shared that Club Rush helps them get involved and build community.
“Clubs bring people together by making new friends and being something bright in your life, so it won’t feel so sad and gloomy,” eighth-grader Martha H. said.