ISU students seeking out new ways to get involved on campus have an opportunity to do so looming on the horizon.

On Thursday, Jan. 31, the ISU Engineering Student Council will be hosting an engineering club fair.

From 4 to 6 p.m. at Howe Hall Atrium, students of all majors are invited to learn more about the engineering-based student organizations and clubs Iowa State has to offer.

Upon arrival to the fair, attendees will have the opportunity to mingle with organization leaders, receive information about a club or organization and even join on the spot if they are so inclined.

Rebecca Briesmoore, vice president of events for the council, notes that 22 clubs and organizations were signed up to be represented at the fair. This number could climb as clubs continue to sign up for slots past press time.

This event is open to all students regardless of major.

Briesmoore exemplified one way non-engineering students can make their mark.

“Most of the engineering clubs are open to everybody and really love getting other students involved. A lot of the competition teams like PrISUm [solar vehicles] and AirPad [aerial vehicles] who are competing really like getting business majors because they can help them with marketing,” Briesmoore said. “Engineers are not so great at communication sometimes.”

Joel Johnson, director of student engagement with the College of Engineering as well as faculty advisor for Engineering Student Council, built on the sentiment of egalitarianism found in engineering-based clubs.

“Many engineering student organizations engage in activities and programming that invite cross-curriculum participation based on the nature of the activities, roles for members and interests of students in leadership development and service,” Johnson said.

These organizations span varying levels of dedication, required levels of expertise and fields of interest. Certain clubs and organizations can provide opportunities for team competition and high-level research within multiple facets of engineering.

However, there are also plenty of organizations available to join that require no prior expertise or ability. These organizations can serve as conduits for socialization, exploration and information gathering.

With a wide variety of choices encompassing the far-reaching engineering gamut, students are invited to come and find a club or organization that is palatable to their interests.

Briesmoore summarizes what benefits exist from being active in a club or organization. “It’s definitely something you should do for your resume.”

Professional aspirations aside, she also mentions it’s an opportunity to meet a lot of people.

 “You learn way more working with them and by doing hands-on projects. You could learn more than you ever would in class,” Briesmoore said.