Students bid for clubs during Rush Week

By Rebekah McPheeters, Contributing Writer

This past week, OBU students had the opportunity to Rush for a bid into one of the six social clubs on campus.

“It’s an experience, trying new things and meeting people from different backgrounds, understanding people,” freshman communication studies major Isabel Palos said.

Each social club puts together a theme for this week and spends time getting to know potential new members.

At the end of the week, the freshmen may join a social club as a new member.

Amber Isaac is a junior psychology major and member of Theta Sigma Chi.

“We get to show off what our club is about, and meet new Thetas and new people.  It’s crazy and tiring, but completely worth it,” Isaac said.   

Palos was one of many students who participated in Rush week.

“I was a little bit nervous; I didn’t know what to expect,” Palos said.

“But now I’ve met so many different people, personalities and majors.  It’s helped me branch out and get to know the community at OBU.”

For many of the members, community was the biggest reason they are a part of a social club.

“I thought joining a social club was a good place to meet awesome people, get involved and be connected,” Isaac said.

A big part of Rush week is the conversations that go on between potential new members and the clubs.

“Just be yourself,” Isaac said. “That’s what we value the most.  Start a conversation and don’t stress out about it.  It’s going to be so much fun.”

Palos said she was concerned that she may not find anyone to connect with in the social clubs during Rush week, but she understood that meeting people was a part of the process.

“There are always going to be people that will accept you for who you are,” she said.

“You just have to be yourself; people notice that,” Palos said. “Just go out and try new things.  It’s a good experience.”

The social club community that has developed at OBU can be described as different than other universities.

Many of the clubs at OBU focus on service projects and connecting with a larger community.

Palos said she recognized the unique qualities of the social clubs at OBU.

“If I were at any other university, I wouldn’t have rushed,” Palos said. “Because it’s OBU, the culture is really different.  My whole goal was to be involved and get out of my comfort zone.”

For many students at OBU, social clubs are a great way to get involved in the broader community and build new friendships.

Other students may find different ways to get involved on campus. Isaac wanted students to understand the importance of engaging the world.

“Make sure you are a part of what is going on,” Isaac said.  “You are a valuable member.”