Clubs are a central part of high school life. They help expose us to novel ideas, meet new people who share similar interests, and allow us to integrate into the school community. There are clubs for a wide variety of things at AHS, and it can get a bit overwhelming sometimes. On the other hand, clubs are usually not binding so don’t be afraid if you end up not enjoying your choices! You can switch at any time. The goal of clubs is to let you pick how to enhance your high school experience, not force you into something

The first type of clubs that are common at Arcadia High are academic clubs. Unlike academic teams, they don’t require any tryout―all you have to do is show up! The most popular ones are those related to the sciences, particularly Biology Club and Chemistry Club. Others cover topics that may not be offered at the school or supplement an existing one. If there’s a class that isn’t currently available, a club is another option where you can explore your interests. For example, Astronomy Club teaches students about the planets and solar system. Coding Club may appeal to those who are or are planning on taking AP Computer Science. They cover several different methods of coding as well as provide hands-on coding tasks and projects to members. Academic clubs seem like nerdy choices, but they can help maintain a well-rounded education.

Another set of clubs are culture clubs. AHS is a highly diverse school with students of many different backgrounds and ethnicities. Culture clubs allow them to connect more with an important part of their identity or become more informed on identities that are not their own. French Club and Taiwanese Club are both great examples. Other groups have also formed clubs of their own for similar purposes. Girl Up and the Gay-Straight Alliance help strengthen solidarity among the student body and encourage acceptance. These clubs are central to the unity of our school and are a fantastic opportunity to get to know people who may be much more different from the ones you normally talk to.

Finally, there are community service clubs. A lot of these offer volunteer hours just for showing up at meetings. For underclassmen who want to get a head start on service hours, community service clubs allow them to do so both in and out of school, which can be particularly appealing to those who have busy schedules. Further, there are a number of ways to contribute. Sierra Club is a regular environmental club that helps keep the campus clean. Or if you’re more the type to work indoors, Stitching Our Society teaches members arts and crafts and also has many volunteer opportunities, such as going to the library and helping teach the children. Not only are you bettering Arcadia and the school by participating in these clubs and activities, you also learn important life skills while experiencing the world beyond the school walls.

AHS’ range of clubs is one to be taken advantage of. No matter which one you choose to go with, you’re sure to learn something. You can meet many of them at Club Day on Sept. 18 and 19.