The Student Engagement Fair takes place at the start of the semester on each campus across Collin College to introduce students to resources, clubs, and departments.
The highlight of the event is engaging with organizations and increasing student involvement, according to Michael Gregorash, assistant director of Student Engagement.
“The more involved our students are, the more connected they will be to the college and each other,” he said.
This incredible goal of unity is exemplified through the numerous Collin College organizations that choose to participate in the fair to recruit members, spread awareness, or simply promote collaboration.
One of the clubs participating in the Student Engagement Fair is the Collin College Women in Cybersecurity Club or WiCyS. The club spreads awareness regarding digital security and highlights the importance of incorporating habits that protect our digital presence.
WiCyS president Nghi Nguyen said another goal for the organization especially during the Student Engagement Fair is to increase diversity in this field.
“In my personal interactions, I found that one of the reasons why my female peers are hesitant to join a field like cybersecurity is out of fear that they wouldn’t be smart or successful enough,” Nguyen said.
Nguyen hopes that activities offered by the WiCyS club will allow people to explore new opportunities because cybersecurity is “not just for the tech wizards but the passionate problem solvers.”
Another organization hoping to spread awareness is the Student Veterans of America Club. The club is passionate about displaying their values while also showcasing the remarkable support available for young veterans, military-connected family members, and those who wish to support the veteran community.
“The club is a vibrant community dedicated to fostering leadership and development, providing professional growth opportunities, and offering a strong sense of camaraderie for veterans and their supporters,” said Terica Shepherd, president of the College Chapter.
The club hopes to use the fair as a platform to increase awareness for students who may not be knowledgeable about such resources.
Psychology Professor Samantha Kyser is the advisor for Psi Beta, a psychology student organization, and she explains the importance of student involvement.
“Involvement is a key feature of a successful academic journey, and by joining an organization, students are able to network and develop relationships with others who may help them along the way,” Kyser said.
The week of Sept. 11-14 is packed with exciting activities and opportunities at the Collin College campuses, so if you are able to attend it’s an excellent way to engage with the student body at your school. Furthermore, you can also explore your interests, find useful resources, and join organizations that matter to you!
The student engagement fairs will be held at the following campuses on these dates:
– Plano Campus: Monday, Sept. 11 at 11 a.m.
– Wylie Campus: Tuesday, Sept. 12 at 11 a.m.
– Technical Campus: Wednesday, Sept.13 at 11 a.m.
– Frisco Campus: Wednesday, Sept. 13 at 11 a.m.
– Celina Campus: Wednesday, Sept. 13 at 11 a.m.
– McKinney Campus: Thursday, Sept. 14 at 11 a.m.
– Farmersville Campus: Thursday, Sept. 14 at 11 a.m.
For more details, students can visit Cougar Connect at collin.campuslabs.com/engage/.
The above article was contributed by Maryam Arshad, a student at Collin College. Collin College News extends its gratitude for Maryam’s valuable contribution.