Hundreds of students streamed through the student center on Wednesday, August 20, eager to see what campus organizations had to offer. Over 50 groups set up tables, from fashion and cultural clubs to leadership and service organizations, giving students a chance to explore their interests and maybe find a place to belong.
College isn’t just about classes and exams — it’s also about discovering new passions, meeting people, and finding a community. One way students at Georgia Southern University do this is by joining campus organizations, which offer opportunities to grow, connect, and gain skills outside the classroom.
For Josh Maurice, a member of the Visage Fashion Company, the group has been a confidence booster. Thinking back to his first runway show in fall 2022, he said, “After my very first show…this girl came up to me and said, ‘You’re that boy that did your thing on that runway.’ That just let me know that we were seen.”
Visage has been on campus since before 2015 and hosts multiple fashion shows each semester, all with different themes. Josh described the group as “Creative. Different. Family” and said, “A lot of people don’t know about our org…we’re for everybody…It’s a space for everyone to be themselves.”
The National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) focuses on leadership, community engagement, and professional growth. The national organization, founded in 1935, empowers Black women and their families. On campus, members volunteer, mentor others, and build connections. Amani Hudley, secretary, said, “It also taught me to keep myself accountable and gave me professional development skills.”
She added, “If you’re ever looking for somewhere to connect with other like-minded women, this is it.” Ryan Lucas, Third Vice President, said, “For me, I’m very shy and not outgoing…this kind of made me step out of my shell, especially being a vice president and having to talk to a lot of people.”
Morgan Bennet, president of the Black Student Alliance, said her group helps students develop leadership skills while balancing classes. “Being a part of this organization gave me experience with leadership…making sure everybody in the general body meeting feels enabled and making sure everything is working,” she said.
She also learned time management: “I’ve learned so much about time management and making sure everything gets accomplished.” The Black Student Alliance focuses on creating a safe space for the Black Georgia Southern community while also connecting with the wider Statesboro area.
Whether students are exploring creativity, stepping into leadership roles, or just finding a community they connect with, campus organizations give students a chance to grow in ways the classroom alone can’t. The fair was a glimpse at all the opportunities available — and for many students, it’s the first step toward making the most of their college experience.
