HPU'S CLUB CARNIVAL EMPOWERS STUDENTS TO GET MORE ENGAGED

Each fall and spring semester, HPU’s Student Engagement team hosts  Club Carnival to encourage students to explore the many opportunities they can be part of. With a goal of increasing student involvement, the event on Sept. 16 at Aloha Tower Marketplace gave students the ability to see a variety of programs and clubs to join and learn more about. From study abroad programs and athletic clubs to business and safe driving programs, HPU’s Club Carnival reached many aspiring, eager students. 

Black Student Union was one club in particular that was very enthusiastic to recruit new members. With Vice President Maleyah Navarro relaying information to potential newcomers, Black Student Union hopes to have a year full of numerous fun events. The club, which  intends to show affiliates that culture and community are critical in holding each other up, is prepared to host multiple beach days, karaoke events, and even some cookouts to really make the club stand out and encourage more participants. Navarro states, “Black Student Union is for anybody to join, more about community, having fellowship, and just getting to know more people around the school.” Black Student Union is perfect for anyone of any race or ethnicity to join if they want a place that is very inclusive, teaches about different cultures, and promotes kindness in a judgment-free zone. For anyone interested in knowing more about their next event, Navarro encourages any questions to be asked through her email, mnavarro6@my.hpu.edu and to follow @hpu_bsu on Instagram.

Black Student Union was only one of many community-based clubs in attendance at Club Carnival. Public Health Students’ Association (PHSA) was also looking to gain new student members. PHSA is an organization rooted in discovery, awareness, and most importantly, community. Aiming to teach the surrounding area about personal health and the importance of staying up to date on vaccines, PHSA works alongside many different clubs and institutions to provide answers to commonly known myths and misconceptions. President Ava Johnson discussed the consideration PHSA holds for the community, both inside and outside HPU campuses. Johnson says, "Even though the island is small, it’s truly just the fact that we are in such close proximity with everyone that you have to feel some sort of empathy.” PHSA engages closely with topics that promote empathy and consideration. Last year, they collaborated with HPU’s Run Club to teach the community about breast cancer to ensure that everyone’s safety is a priority. “I love a fun little event I can get creative with,” Johnson said regarding upcoming events. With many planned events in the spring, PHSA hopes to tackle topics surrounding tobacco use, childcare, and public health meetings. Johnson does not want that to stop anyone from waiting to join, however, as there are many fun on-campus events being held this fall, which include many intriguing prizes and even free food. For more information on PHSA, contact Johnson by email at ajohnson71@my.hpu.edu.

Assistant Director of Student Engagement, Marissa Romero, who oversees the Registered Student Organizations (RSOs), was very happy with how the event was turning out. With the goal in mind of Club Carnival being a one-stop shop to gain information about all the possible student engagement opportunities, Romero was very proud of how the course of the day went and is eager for students to make new connections. The event was designed to support students by allowing them students to gain a stepping stone towards their future education and career goals, while also building a sense of community around themselves. “It really never gets old seeing a student’s face light up out of curiosity and enjoyment when they establish a connection,” Romero said about her favorite part of the event and life at HPU. 

Along with making connections, Club Carnival was imperative in showcasing the community that is truly felt by students here at HPU. Although the island that students now call home may be small, it sure is mighty in creating a sense of belonging. 

Students who are interested in starting a new RSO are strongly encouraged to contact Romero at mtromero@hpu.edu to allow their new, student-driven idea to flourish and be seen at the next Club Carnival. As always, be on the lookout for many more events like Club Carnival that aim to show students just why HPU stands out.  


All photos by Henley Baker.