American University of Sharjah (AUS) Student Center was a flurry of activity as students convened at the Fall 2103 Club Fair, which began today, October 7. The two-day event, held each semester, gives new students a chance to sign up for the many cultural and common interest clubs at the university. With 72 ethnic and interest-oriented clubs and eight departments from the Office of Student Affairs participating in the fair this semester, the level of student excitement and involvement was more than ever before.

Organized by the Office of Student Affairs, the fair highlights campus diversity and introduces new students to the student-led organizations on campus. During the fair, the AUS Student Center is divided into segments with corners for Asia, Africa, the Middle East, as well as other parts of the globe, interest-oriented clubs and departments from the Office of Student Affairs. Students enjoy the two-day event taking the time to interact with their peers form different majors.

The Club Fair was inaugurated by Dr. R. Malcolm Richards, Acting Provost, and Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, in the presence of other senior university officials.

The four newly established clubs this semester are the Design Management Club, Engineers Without Borders Club, Industrial Engineering Club and the International Studies Club.

"This is a promising academic year for extracurricular activities as we started the semester with a positive student turnout in most of our programs and activities. This Club Fair alone witnessed the participation of 72 student-sponsored clubs and organizations, up by 33 percent from previous years," said Dr. Al Shehhi.

"This is a direct result of the increase in the number of students and commensurate with their interest in engaging in extracurricular activities. I am glad to know that many of our students now understand the importance and benefits of out-of-classroom learning experiences in complementing their academic endeavors. Although it will be a challenging year ahead for Student Affairs, our team is well-prepared to accommodate student demands while optimizing whatever university resources are available to satisfy our students' needs for activities," she added.

The Club Fair will continue until tomorrow, October 8. The second day will see traditional dance performances and prizes will be given to the best stalls created by the ethnic and interest-oriented clubs.