Involvement Fair Keeps MC Students ‘In the Know’ About Campus Organizational Opportunities

Camryn Johnson, a fifth-year senior math major, encourages MC students to become involved in campus organizations.

Mississippi College students can discover a myriad of ways to become involved in the campus community during the Student Involvement Fair, scheduled from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 25, on the Caf patio along Pedestrian Street on the Clinton campus.

Sponsored by the MC Office of Student Engagement, the annual event showcases all of the special interest and academic organizations involving students at MC, and volunteer opportunities in the Division of Student Experience.

Jonathan Nutt, assistant dean of students, said the fair is designed to attract both new and returning students at Mississippi College.

“Student Involvement Fairs are some of the best ways for students to learn about the ways to connect with campus life at MC,” Nutt said. “New students are introduced to the many involvement opportunities in one place. It’s a ‘one-stop’ place for finding out about all of the many opportunities offered by MC organizations and departments.

“Organizations have the opportunity to set up tables, spread awareness and build their membership.”

Camryn Johnson, a fifth-year senior math major and servant leadership and African American studies minor from Byram, attended the first Student Involvement Fair at MC during her sophomore year.

“I thought it was a great idea where organizations across campus can showcase who they are to prospective members,” said Johnson, who started the Multicultural Student Association (MSA) at MC. The organization promotes diversity, inclusion, and multiculturalism on the Clinton campus.

“The day before the first Student Involvement Fair, the MSA was chartered. I was excited to represent the new organization and tell students all about our purpose and vision.”

Three years later, Johnson continues to participate in the event.

“I’ve been involved in many groups and organizations on campus, so I will definitely be at the fair as a resource for students,” she said. “I’ll be mingling with students and directing them to their organization of interest.

“I like encouraging students to get involved somewhere on campus because it will make their time here worthwhile.”

Johnson said many new students come to MC eager to find their niche. She recommends they take a strategic approach to the fair.

“MC has numerous groups and organizations for everyone,” Johnson said. “Though it can be overwhelming to see all that MC has to offer, I like to encourage students to get involved in one thing their first year. It shouldn’t be too much to handle, and they’ll be getting a glimpse of student involvement here on campus.

“Later, they’ll be able to join other groups and step into leadership roles where they can encourage others to get plugged in somewhere on campus.”

Nutt said new students appreciate the opportunity to interact with representatives of all student organizations in one setting.

“I think it can be challenging for students to understand how they can get involved,” he said. “The Student Involvement Fair provides all the information in one spot.

“The Office of Student Engagement’s goal is to have more organizations represented than ever.”

Johnson said she is happy to see how participation in the organization she started has grown along with all the others represented in the Student Involvement Fair at MC.

“I started the MSA because I needed a place where I could find community here on campus,” she said. “Our organization fosters an inclusive and diverse environment for students by establishing relationships, understanding cultural values, and encouraging student development by promoting diversity, multiculturalism, and inclusion through various conversations, events, activities, and programs.

“I’m proud of its upcoming fourth year under new leadership, and can’t wait to see all that’s in store for this year.”

For more information about student organizations at MC, visit www.mc.edu/students/policies/student-organizations.