AUS students celebrate their cultural and ethnic diversity

Students of American University of Sharjah (AUS) celebrated the diverse community of the university during its Spring 2016 Club Fair, which began today, February 15, 2016. The two-day event gives new students a chance to sign up for the many cultural and common interest clubs on the AUS campus.

Organized by the Office of Student Affairs, the Club Fair was inaugurated by Dr. Björn Kjerfve, AUS Chancellor, in the presence of Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Dean of Students; Kevin Mitchell, Interim Provost; and other senior officials. The fair featured 34 ethnic clubs, 36 interest-oriented clubs and 8 departments from the Office of Student Affairs participating this semester. The newly established clubs joining the Club Fair this semester are the Physics Club and the Graduate Student Association.

As the student Club Fair marks the university's cultural and ethnic diversity among its students and staff, the club fair aims to introduce new students to the student-led organizations on campus and familiarize them with the many cultures on campus, as well as join the participating clubs.

In addition, the aim of the Club Fair helps students pursue their personal interests outside the classroom, as well as build leadership skills.

"The colorful booths and displays are a reflection of our students' enthusiasm and passion for out-of-class learning experiences and activities. Club Fair is a platform where our students hone their various skills in an atmosphere full of fun, friends and entertainment," said Dr. Al Shehhi.

"We are proud to say that many students are engaged and satisfied with the extracurricular opportunities offered by the university. These activities complement our students' academic learning and promote a vibrant campus life," she added.

Merilyn Clare, Activities Coordinator of Chemistry Club said, "We are hoping to make chemistry more interesting for the new students since we have come to realize that more interest is needed in chemistry as a field of study and our goal in this club fair is to show others that chemistry is a big part of life and hope to encourage the freshmen to understand it more."

The student leaders of the clubs will also get the chance to promote their organizations and spread awareness about their ideas and activities. The Club Fair will continue until tomorrow, February 16, 2016.