School is back in session, folks!

With returning students back on campus and new freshmen eager to get involved, there’s no better place to learn about the opportunities at Penn State than the Involvement Fair. The fair is set to take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. today, Wednesday, August 24, on the HUB Lawn.

Though it might seem daunting for a freshman, this event is a Penn State tradition that allows students to check out all the clubs and organizations the university has to offer. To help you navigate your way through the HUB Lawn maze on Wednesday, here are some tips that will help you breeze through like a pro.

Do Your Research

When you arrive, there’s going to be a sea of students crammed on a tiny patch of grass that we lovingly refer to as the HUB Lawn. If you do your research ahead of time and come prepared with a list of organizations that pique your interest, getting in and out can be easy as cake.

You can find the list of all of Penn State’s clubs on OrgCentral, too. Check out OrgCentral beforehand because doing your research can spare you plenty of anxiety.

Sample Something New

Think of walking through the fair as if you were going to a buffet. It’s all-you-can-eat, and you have to try a little bit of everything. It’s perfectly fine to step out of your comfort zone because something might surprise you and be a new food (or club) that you like.

There is something at Penn State for everyone, but maybe it isn’t what you expected.

Take Time To Process

While walking through, you’re going to get stopped by pretty much every booth to listen to the ~spiel~. When you walk through, play nice and show interest to the clubs that approach you, but don’t feel like you have to commit to anything right then and there.

Take time to think and see what’s going to fit you and your schedule best. But, if you aren’t vibing with many or any of the organizations, it’s OK to say no later. You can always leave the GroupMe chat next week.

Not Your Cup Of Tea?

If you see nothing you can commit to that piques your interest, that’s perfectly fine. But, attending the Involvement Fair will give you a chance to get an idea of what Penn State offers, or maybe inspire you to start a club of your own.

If you leave without any inspiration, maybe you just enjoyed people-watching throughout the day or you discovered a desire to report everything you saw because if that’s the case, we’re hiring.

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Don’t forget to check out all the Fall Involvement Fair offers and go with an optimistic, open mind. Good luck, folks!