Penn State’s Involvement Fair is one of the biggest events of the start of the school year. Here’s a look at the organizations that could potentially lead to lifelong friendships and ignite passions you never thought you had.

The Involvement Fair can be extremely overwhelming, especially for first-year students looking to get involved and don’t know where to start. We’ve got you covered!

This year, the fair lands on Tuesday, September 3, from 1-5 p.m. on the HUB lawn. Before you step into the maze of poster boards and sign-up sheets, take a look at some tips to get the most out of your Involvement Fair experience.

Stay Hydrated & Bring Heat Protection

Whether you’re a member of an org or just a student looking to find a club, you must keep yourself safe while you’re at the Involvement Fair. The fair will be crowded and the weather is projected to be sunny, so bring a bottle of water, wear sunscreen/sunglasses, and try not to get exhausted in your search for a new club.

Go With A Friend

Trying new things can be scary, especially if you’re doing it by yourself. Instead, explore the Involvement Fair with a friend, even if you guys have different interests from each other. You’ll always have a familiar face to turn to and by the end of your journey, you guys can reflect on the orgs that caught your attention.

Do Some Research Beforehand

It never hurts to be prepared! If you’re on Instagram, type in “Penn State” or “PSU” followed by your interest, and see what pops up. By learning more about a club through their Instagram, you can determine whether or not the club is a right fit for you. If it isn’t, then you just saved yourself some time and if it is, you can find them at the fair to have a more in-depth conversation about the club.

Explore New Interests

If you’re at the Involvement Fair, you most likely have an open mind when it comes to your involvement. It’s important to take the time and explore what the fair has to offer; even if it’s something not related to your major. Whether it’s a hobby, a potential career opportunity, or just something to pass the time, there’s a club out there for you and the Involvement Fair is the perfect place to find it.

Visit Your College-Specific Involvement Fair

After you’re done visiting the general Involvement Fair, you should go to your college-specific Involvement Fair. There you can find more clubs you might have missed or talk to the same organizations and become familiar with some of its members.

The Involvement Fair represents new beginnings and a chance to meet new people who share the same interests and hobbies you possess, so don’t be afraid to put yourself out there!

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Don’t see what you’re looking for? Maybe Onward State is the spot for you. Our fall 2024 application is open until noon on Sunday, September 15. We’re looking for the next generation of talented writers, photographers, graphic designers, and more. You can find that application here.

You won’t find us at the Involvement Fair on Tuesday, but you can swing by the Bellisario Involvment Fair and Ice Cream Social on Wednesday, September 4, to say hi!