Clubs show off to tempt students
Students at Massey University got a taste of flame-throwing, weightlifting and archery as the various clubs took the opportunity to show off for prospective members.
For second-year student Ulisses Dias, clubs day was all about giving something new a go.
Whether it was politics, aikido, or cultural clubs, there was something for everyone, with more than 60 clubs on offer at Clubs Day, held at the Palmerston North campus concourse on Wednesday.
Dias, who is part of the university’s student association, initially thought language might be a barrier after immigrating to New Zealand from Brazil.
But, he was lucky to meet some supportive people and make great friends, he said.
Clubs Day was a good way to encourage new students to get out there, meet people, and get involved in the events happening around them, he said.
There were also cultural clubs on offer, including the Chinese, Indonesian and African clubs, which were great for new students who still wanted be around their home cultures and language, he said.
‘‘There’s a wide range of clubs and groups. You don’t have to completely let go of who you are.’’
Rosie Tate, a masters student, said she had seen a lot of clubs days over the years and enjoyed taking part in the activities.
Through groups and clubs, people became more connected, which could help with job opportunities in the future, she said.
Chinese Student Association president Bochuan Dai said about 50 Chinese students registered on Wednesday.
The club brought Chinese students together, and organised events and activities for them.
There were more than 300 registered members in the club, but only about 30 active members.
The club was taking part in the Chinese Moon Festival in September and needed all the members they could get for it, he said.
Political parties, the Defence Force, and employment groups also attended the Clubs Day.