The American University of Sharjah (AUS) Student Center was bustling with activity as students convened at the Fall 2014 Club Fair, which began today, September 29. The two-day event gives new students a chance to sign up for the many cultural and common interest clubs on the AUS campus.

Organized by the Office of Student Affairs, the Club Fair was inaugurated by Dr. Björn Kjerfve, Chancellor; Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Vice Chancellor; Kevin Mitchel, Interim Provost; and other senior officials, and featured 33 ethnic clubs, 34 interest-oriented clubs and eight departments from the Office of Student Affairs participating this semester. The two newly established clubs joining the Club Fair this semester are the Romanian Cultural Club and the Google Students Club.

"With the high quality of extracurricular programs and services offered by the university, many students are coming up with new innovative ideas to promote their interests and express their passion," said Dr. Moza Al Shehhi. "It is our role to support these student initiatives and provide them with resources and tools to help them realize their ideas and concepts. Club Fair complements these ideas and resources by serving as a practice field for our students to hone their skills through various activities and practical learning experiences before, during and after the event. Club Fair is more than just a membership drive; it is a colorful expression of our students' cultural backgrounds and interests."

The event not only introduces freshmen to the student-led organizations at AUS but it also highlights campus diversity. The student leaders of the clubs get the chance to promote their organizations and spread awareness about their ideas and activities.

"This is my first time attending the Club Fair and the idea of learning so much about different countries and cultures is fascinating. It's a great opportunity to meet and interact with new people," said freshman Lara Yaseen. "I never thought that the Student Center could be transformed as much as it has."

The Club Fair will continue until tomorrow, September 30.