Film Lovers, Bird Lovers, Artists, and Student Leaders Represented at Engagement Fair

From birds to horses to classic films and student government, the Student Engagement Fair had outlets for everyone’s interests.

“My friend and I started the Film Society because we both really love movies,” said student Bella Sturiale at a table covered with DVDs of films such as “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” (1975), “Mouse Hunt” (1997), and “Portrait of a Lady on Fire” (2019).

The club harkens back to a simpler time. Sturliale said organizers choose films based on vibes, with a lot of older, campy movies. The club’s first film last semester was “9 to 5,” starring the late Dolly Parton. A flyer for the club spells the words “The Landmark Film Society” with letters cut from paper like a ransom note.

Clubs and programs at Landmark College programs are available to bring students together and engage in enjoyable pursuits. Activities involve athletics, artistic endeavors, impassioned discussion, an honor society, and more. Students are encouraged to propose and initiate new activities with the College’s support. A total of 23 clubs and organizations turned out for the Student Engagement Fair on a recent rainy evening.

“Our biggest concern going in today was: Will the rain keep students from coming down?” said Scott Forthofer, director of student involvement & leadership development. “But I have been very impressed so far. We’ve had a consistent stream of students come through.”

Signups for a brand-new Psychology Club proved especially popular. 

“Everyone's interested in different things, so it kind of opens the door to whether you want to learn how your brain works or other people's brains work, or if you just want to learn about the basics of psychology,” said student Jayla Bruce.

Sitting with Bruce at the Psychology Club table, Assistant Professor of Psychology Jordan Schotz said members will determine whether they want the club based around research-related talks or movies and games that relate to psychology.

“There are some students who have interest in special topics that we don't have classes on,” Schotz said. "We might have some guest speakers or presentations by faculty on these special topics.” He gave forensic psychology as an example.

For students interested in exploring topics in depth, there is also the History Club. The group hosts weekly presentations and discussions on topics ranging from ancient civilizations like the Incas, Aztecs, and Mayans to the history of horror films.

“If it’s history, we like it,” said student Zack Breault. “If you have any interest in putting together a presentation and presenting it, we’re not going to stop you.”

One table hosted a chicken plushie named Peony. This table was for the Bird Club, “for all types of bird lovers,” said student Alyssa Dufort.

“Whether you’re interested in wild birds, domestic birds — like, any birds, we will have some type of event for you,” Dufort said.

Business and leadership

For students with entrepreneurial aspirations, there is Future Business Leaders of America.

“What it's for is to help students that are interested in being a business professional or an entrepreneur to learn how to do that and talk to people that have the same kind of mindset,” said Assistant Professor of Business Miriam Marks. 

This semester, the organization plans to host a “Shark Tank,” based off the reality show, where students can pitch business proposals in front of professionals who will visit campus.

For students interested in leadership, there is the Student Government Association, through which students can work with the administration and have a direct impact on campus life.

“I like hearing student voices, seeing what we can do to improve, what we can change, and how we can make Landmark better, not just for current students, but also for future students,” said student Barry Winfield III.

And, for anyone and everyone who wants to make a difference, the fair hosted a voter registration booth.

Creative expression

On the table for Art Club were boxes of colored pencils of many shades of different colors. The club provides a weekly space for students to make and talk about art, with materials provided. Student Roark Anixter showed how designs can be pressed into wearable pins, which were available for the taking. 

Landmark Makers is a new organization designed with a goal to “create a place where people can sell all of their weirdo art,” said student Raziel Ferguson. One idea is to create an artists’ stand at a local farmers market.

“I want to make a space where it’s easier for people to understand why what they make matters. Art matters so freakin' much. It's everywhere. It's within everything here,” Ferguson said. 

Other opportunities included “Voices” student media outlets, Garden Club, a horseback riding lesson program, a club for students to find community through faith, and regular on- and off-campus athletic and recreation events.

Learn more about Student Life and find a schedule for all club meetings on SharkNet.