With over 80 clubs and organizations on campus, it is easy to say that there is something here for everyone. However, the same “big-name” clubs standout more than others; for example, Glee, FUSA, The Mirror, etc. But what about those clubs that get brushed to the side every year at the club fair? Why have they not gotten any recognition? Have you ever heard of the German Club?
With over 4,000 people who attend Fairfield University, there are less than 20 active members in the German Club. On the contrary, it may seem like a negative thing that they are not getting attention by many people. However, those involved seem to say otherwise.
As a freshman, co-president Angela Bida ’16 never expected to be a part of a club so unique. She originally joined the club because German was the language she took as a Fairfield CORE requirement. Soon after joining, she realized it was more than just any organization. She fell in love with the family-like atmosphere and the tight-knit group of diverse students.
“At my first Kaffestunde, I remember how invited I felt. I could see that this was a group where you made long lasting friends,” says co-president Melissa Ambrosini ’16. Both Bida and Ambrosini love the fact that as a member, you get to know everyone on a personal level.
The strong relationships that students have built through the club are not restricted to inside the classroom or the meetings. Even though the students have different interests, the bond they do share allows them to have more personal relationships outside of German Club. Whether it’s hanging out on the weekends at a party, getting lunch in Barone or talking five minutes before and after class, it’s nice to feel so comfortable with a group of fellow students. It’s like “our own little community,” Bida says.
Aside from “Kaffeestunde” (meaning coffee hour) where the club members informally meet to enjoy German pastries and a cup of coffee or try a new beverage such as “Apfelschorle” while participating in German-themed activities, friendships also take place outside of the club.
During the holidays, members participate in coloring Easter eggs as well as baking. “Our annual cookie baking is definitely my favorite event. We make traditional types of German cookies,” says Ambrosini.
Even though German Club has been a place for students to bond, let lose and hangout, members recognize the importance of learning about other cultures. In “the global society we live in today it is important to know about the other cultures that exist around us and to be able to understand them,” Bida says. She believes everyone can benefit by learning more about the backgrounds of our fellow peers.
Realistically, Bida does not see the German Club being one of the most popular clubs on campus. Because “not very many take German at Fairfield, they do not feel the need to participate in the club. Everyone is always welcome to join and we encourage new members,” she says.
Even though the German Club has been on the back burner, they seem to be okay with standing out in their own way. Prost!