My First Time in a Club
Submitted by Sophia Li
First semester of senior year, how exciting! It’s a new beginning because this will be my first year in a club (AAPC). I’ve never been in a club before, mainly because I have no time and I’m busy with classes. Now that I’m in my senior year, I’m in fewer classes and have more time. It’s pretty challenging because I’m not used to this, and I’m still trying to get the hang of it. I am usually behind on things or still getting the hang of it, but with more time, I’m sure I will do better. Joining this club was a good experience to meet people and connect with them. I love the AAPC members and how welcoming it is! It has helped my personal and emotional growth a lot.
Personal Development
This club has given me new opportunities to explore new interests. Not only that, but being in AAPC gives me a sense of belonging. Being in the club gives opportunities to talk about traditions and challenges that other people might not understand. We get to celebrate our heritage and have events like dim sum. Participating in these events strengthens my pride as an Asian American. It encourages different cultures from different backgrounds. As someone who grew up as an Asian American, I used to get bullied a lot because of my race. Being in the club gives me a sense of belonging
Social & Emotional Growth
Being in this club impacts my life on campus. I have met so many people! One of the biggest social benefits of joining an Asian club is the chance to make new friends. The people on campus that I know have definitely grown. I never really socialized with people on campus, nor did I have a lot of friends. I usually go to class and go home after, but now that I’m in a club, I see more people I know and hang out with them as well. I also have something to do after my classes, whether it’s going to a meeting or filming a podcast. It has helped me emotionally by reducing my feelings of “isolation.” Sometimes I get the feeling of not “fitting in,” and in this club, it makes me feel welcoming and accepted.
Reduction of Stress
During school, there is so much stress with classes. Usually, I’m stressed with all the class work and exams. Being in a club gives me some time away from homework and studying. It’s like a breath of fresh air to do something else that’s fun in school. Stress often builds up when alone, and being in a club gives you a positive outlook and surrounds you with people. Having people to talk to, laugh with, or share experiences with makes stressful situations easier to handle. Being in this club involves a lot of fun activities that help keep my mind off the harder things in school.
Conclusion
Overall, being in AAPC has helped me a lot personally, emotionally, and mentally. I love being in this club and everyone in it. I never would have imagined being here today with the board members and everyone else. I am so grateful to be a part of his club and to have shared these experiences with them. Not only do I love the people, but I love how I am around them. I can’t wait to make more memories with them, and I am so grateful that I had the chance to be on board!
