As NDB approaches the three-month mark in the 2023-2024 school year, even more opportunities have been made available to students who are interested in being more involved in the school’s community. The club fair, which took place on September 28, was a great way for students to find groups of people with common interests as well as a chance for people to make new friends. NDB offered an amazing selection of 35 different clubs for students to choose from, ranging from the long-time favorite Key Club and the recently organized Bracelets for Smiles club.
The Badminton Club, newly formed by freshman co-presidents Shanntal Amurao and Amy Sun, was popular with students wanting to make new friends and learn a new sport.
“I wanted to create an environment for people that are interested in playing badminton as a team,” stated Badminton Club co-president Shanntal Amurao.“I want to bring like-minded people together, which allows them to build skills. Skills that they can use in the future, as well as carry the friendships they make.”
Students who hoped to gain service hours and experience working with citizens in their communities joined Key Club. This club allows students to make an impact and make connections with other Key Clubs in the same region.
“We’re a service club, meaning that we do community service events both in and out of school, and we also hold meetings with other key clubs around the Bay Area,” says Key Club co-president Andie Wong. “You gain a lot of service hours, but most importantly, you gain a lot of experience when it comes to working with underprivileged citizens, or senior citizens, and just gain a more open perspective on who is in our community and how we can help.”
The Bracelets for Smiles club has already amassed a large amount of signups from students in all grade levels. The club, organized by freshman Cadence Goblirsch, was created for students to make bracelets, necklaces, and other types of jewelry to donate to charities and organizations around the Bay Area.
“I think it’s just a really nice place to hang out, and it feels like a safe space,” says Bracelets for Smiles club member Laura Hayhurst, “It doesn’t have the pressure you would expect from a normal club. When I think of a club, I think of doing work and strict meetings, but [the Bracelets for Smiles Club] is just a place where I can hang out with my friends. I can do something that I love while also helping other people.”
These are just a few clubs offered at NDB. Each one of these clubs offers opportunities to students of all grade levels to find others with similar interests and hobbies. Not only are these clubs a chance to earn service hours and experience, but they are also a chance for students to build meaningful friendships and learn valuable skills that will last a lifetime.
